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21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Málaga

Written by Lisa Alexander , Michael Law , and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law explored the sights and beaches of Malaga in the fall of 2022 while on assignment for PlanetWare.

Founded over two millennia ago, Málaga is one of the oldest Mediterranean seaports and a beautiful destination along the Costa del Sol. The landmarks reflect the city's multifaceted heritage and offer a wealth of things to do for visitors. Layers of history can be seen at every turn: ruins of a Roman theater, a medieval Moorish castle built on the remains of a Phoenician lighthouse, the 13th-century Alcazaba, and a glorious Baroque cathedral.

View over Malaga from Castillo de Gibralfaro

Besides cultural attractions, Málaga offers stunning scenery, balmy weather, and beautiful beaches . Leafy palm trees line the seaside promenades, and tropical vegetation flourishes throughout the city.

Málaga's old-world ambience is enchanting if you take the time to see the sights. Wander the historic center to discover pleasant squares and narrow cobblestone streets that brim with little boutiques, outdoor cafés, and tapas restaurants. The harbor offers wide-open spaces for a scenic stroll, as well as restaurants with sea views.

Málaga is packed with sightseeing opportunities, making it a top cruise ship destination. It's not uncommon to see two or three ships in port on any given day during the summer.

Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Málaga.

See also: Where to Stay in Málaga

1. Alcazaba de Málaga

2. catedral de málaga, 3. old town, 4. castillo de gibralfaro, 5. teatro romano, 6. museo picasso málaga, 7. puerto de málaga (málaga port), 8. museo carmen thyssen málaga, 9. playa de la malagueta, 10. museo automovilistico & de la moda, 11. mercado de atarazanas (market hall), 12. museo de málaga, 13. jardín botánico-histórico la concepción, 14. basílica nuestra señora de la victoria, 15. centre pompidou málaga, 16. museo unicaja de artes y costumbres populares, 17. semana santa (holy week), 18. centro de arte contemporáneo (cac málaga), 19. soho (art district), 20. museo del vidrio y cristal de málaga, 21. festival de málaga (málaga film festival), where to stay in málaga for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to málaga, map of attractions & things to do in málaga.

Alcazaba de Málaga

Stronghold of the historic Kingdom of Granada, this ancient Moorish castle was built in the 11th century on the ruins of a Roman bastion and renovated in the 13th century. The town's Muslim rulers governed from this citadel for several hundred years.

Advantageously perched on the Monte de Gibralfaro, the fortified palace was designed with three circuits of defense walls and originally had 110 main towers plus other smaller towers. Visitors can see some of the remaining towers including the Torre de la Vela (tower), the Arco de Cristo (entrance), and the impressive Torre del Homenaje (tower).

The Alcazaba de Málaga is an Islamic architectural gem of the Nasrid period, featuring intricate decorative details and beautiful grounds. There are delightful terraced garden courtyards with refreshing fountains and decorative pools. Some of the outdoor vantage points offer sea views.

Note that the entrance to the Alcazaba de Malaga is located at the bottom of the palace. To reach the top (and all the interesting things), be prepared for an uphill trek on cobblestones for part of the way and stairs for the remainder.

The Alcazaba de Málaga is open every day year-round. Admission and guided tours are free on Sundays.

Address: 2 Calle Alcazabilla, Málaga

Catedral de Málaga

From the Plaza de la Marina, the Calle Molina Lario leads into the Old Town , which is dominated by the Catedral de Málaga (Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación de Málaga). Dating to the 15th century, the Cathedral of Málaga `replaced the city's Great Mosque and is considered a jewel of the Spanish Renaissance. The architecture also incorporates Baroque elements that were added in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Visitors are dazzled by the finely proportioned interior and sense of spaciousness. The cathedral's Capilla del Rosario (the third chapel in the south aisle) is adorned with a painting of the Virgin with Saints by Alonso Cano.

In the Capilla de los Reyes (the first choir chapel on the right) and on the left-hand wall are kneeling figures of the Catholic Monarchs by Pedro de Mena. This chapel also contains the statuette of the Virgin, which Ferdinand and Isabella carried with them on their military campaigns.

Catedral de Málaga

The modern altar in the Capilla Mayor features Passion scenes of 1580. The Choir is especially noteworthy, with its exquisitely carved 17th-century stalls. The 40 carved wooden statues of saints were the work of Pedro de Mena and José Micael Alfaro.

The cathedral's exterior was never completed due to a lack of funds. Although the monument was originally designed as a twin-towered structure, only the 86-meter-high Torre Norte (North Tower) was finished. For this reason, locals call the cathedral "La Manquita," which translates to "The One-Armed Woman."

To admire fabulous panoramas of Málaga and its harbor, take a guided tour of the cathedral's 50-meter-high rooftop, which has been outfitted with pathways, safety rails, and a viewing platform. This tour is recommended only for those in good shape, as visitors must climb the North Tower's spiral staircase of 200 steps to access the rooftop.

Address: 9 Calle Molina Lario, Málaga

Street in Old Town Leading to the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista

Surrounding the cathedral is the Old Town , a labyrinth of medieval-era pedestrian lanes and peaceful squares. Many of the atmospheric streets are lined with quaint boutiques, cafés, and atmospheric tapas restaurants.

At the heart of the Old Town, the Plaza de la Constitución is a hub of activity. This is a good place to begin exploring Málaga's historic center.

Old Town

Near the Plaza de la Constitución is the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista , which was founded by the Catholic Monarchs after the Reconquest of the city in the 15th century. The church blends Gothic and Mudéjar architectural elements, while the interior features 18th-century Baroque decor.

Castillo de Gibralfaro

Standing proudly on the Mount Gibralfaro summit above the Alcazaba, the Castillo de Gibralfaro is another medieval Moorish fortress. The castle was built in the 10th century on the site of a Phoenician lighthouse. The name is derived from the word "gebel-faro" (Arabic and Greek words that mean "rock of the lighthouse").

The Sultan of Granada, Yusef the First, enlarged the fortress in the early 14th century, yet the Castillo de Gibralfaro is most famous for its three-month siege by the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile. After the Christian Reconquest, King Ferdinand made the Castillo de Gibralfaro the emblem on Málaga's flag, as well as the flag of the province.

Although much of the fortress has been destroyed, the site provides a fascinating historical perspective. The Interpretation Centre displays educational exhibits.

The most visible remains of the fortress are the immense old ramparts, which rise above the woodlands. Inside these defensive walls are the relics of buildings and courtyards typical of Islamic architecture.

Take a scenic walk around the well-restored ramparts to discover the grounds and enjoy magnificent views of the Málaga harbor. The sweeping coastal panoramas are breathtaking, as are the views down to the bullring and the Centre Pompidou Málaga.

For those with the energy to burn, a walking trail leads up to the Castillo. This ascent is not for the faint of heart, and although it's paved the entire way, it's steep and very difficult. An easier option is to take the city bus (#35) to the top and walk down.

Also high on Mount Gibralfaro near the Castillo and the Alcazaba is a superb hotel, the Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro . Set amid a forest of pine trees, this luxury accommodation features Moorish-style architecture, comfortable rooms, and a roof terrace with a swimming pool. The four-star hotel's stylish restaurant serves traditional Andalusian cuisine.

Address: Camino de Gibralfaro, Málaga

Teatro Romano

On the west side of the Mount of Gibralfaro is the Teatro Romano , the ruins of an ancient Roman theater dating from the time of emperor Augustus. This spectacular site is located just below the walls of the Alcazaba, and the setting could not be more dramatic. If you've never seen ancient Roman ruins, this is a must-see.

Wander in and take some time to explore this well-restored site. Be sure to descend the stairs and explore the area underneath the plaza. An interesting assortment of excavations can be seen here, all labeled in multiple languages.

Unlike most historical sites in Spain, admission to the Teatro Romano is free. The gate is located near the paid entry point of the Alcazaba.

Museo Picasso Málaga

A must-see attraction for lovers of modern art, this museum in the Old Town displays an extensive collection of Málaga's famous native son. Picasso's childhood home (the house at 15 Plaza de la Merced) is now the Picasso Birthplace Museum (Museo Casa Natal de Picasso).

The collection of the Museo Picasso Málaga represents the entire span of Picasso's life and art career, from his earliest studies to his revolutionary artistic innovations. The wide range of artworks (created between 1892 and 1972) reflects the many styles and techniques that Picasso mastered.

Examples of Picasso's creativity, versatility, and talent are seen in his reworking of paintings by the European masters, as well as the variety of art movements that he introduced, such as Cubism. The collection highlights themes such as the portrait, still life paintings, landscapes, and nudes.

Highlights of the collection include the Mother and Child (1921), the Acrobat (1930), Woman with Raised Arms (1936), Still Life with Skull and Three Sea Urchins (1947), Jacqueline Seated (1954), the Bather (1971), and Musketeer with a Sword (1972).

The museum has a bookshop specializing in books about Picasso and a casual café set in a garden courtyard amid geraniums and orange trees. The café serves breakfast pastries, lunch, coffee, tea, and refreshments inside or on the shaded outdoor terrace.

This is one of Málaga's most popular attractions. In order to avoid disappointment and delay, book your tickets in advance online and select your entry time.

Address: Palacio de Buenavista, 8 Calle San Agustín, Málaga

Puerto de Málaga

A fine result of a massive investment in waterfront redevelopment is the Puerto de Málaga. This delightful area, the arrivals area for cruise ships, is full of wide walkways, restaurants, shops, and restored historical buildings.

A couple of must-sees include the Centre Pompidou Málaga and the historic La Farola lighthouse originally dating from 1816 but renovated over the years to the current structure and location dating from 1939.

The port area is also a popular location for dinner or lunch at one of the many waterside restaurants. You'll find the tourist information office at the western end.

Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga

At the center of the Old Town, the Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga occupies the elegant Palacio de Villalón , which was built on top of the ruins of a 1st-century AD Roman villa. This aristocratic mansion, built in the late 15th- to early 16th century, reveals elaborate Andalusian architectural details of the Renaissance era: ornate coffered ceilings and a two-story central courtyard with marble-columned arcades.

The permanent collection of the museum is renowned for its assortment of 19th- and 20th-century Spanish paintings and has a special focus on artworks of the Andalusia region. The permanent collection also presents paintings by European Old Masters from the 13th century to the 18th century.

Highlights of the collection include Santa Marina by Francisco de Zurbarán, Rocas de Jávea y el Bote Blanco ( Rocks at Jávea and the White Boat ) by Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida, the portrait of Julia by Ramón Casas Carbó, Vista del Guadalquivir ( View of the Guadalquivir River ) by Manuel Barrón y Carrillo, La Capilla de los Benavente en Medina de Rioseco by Genaro Pérez Villaamil, and Mujeres en el Jardín ( Ladies in the Garden ) by Cecilio Pla y Gallardo.

Visitor services at the Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga include a cloakroom, cafeteria, an outdoor terrace, and guided tours. The guided tours are approximately one-hour long. Guided small-group tours on various themes are available upon request.

Address: 10 Calle Compañía, Málaga

Playa de la Malagueta

Málaga has a delightful assortment of beaches within its city limits. The most popular, and the closest to the historic center of town, is the Playa de la Malagueta. This beautiful urban beach features an expansive sand and pebble shoreline and a promenade lined with swaying palm trees.

Amenities at Malagueta Beach include snack bars, beachfront restaurants, showers, a children's playground, and rentals of sun beds and umbrellas, as well as water sports equipment. Next to the beach is the Real Club Mediterráneo de Málaga yacht club.

Malaga

Thanks to its safe and clean waters, the Playa de la Malagueta has been awarded a Blue Flag designation, so it's a great place to visit for swimming, water sports, and sailing.

Sculpture outside the Automobile and Fashion Museum (Museo Automovilistico & de la Moda) in Malaga

A museum that showcases classic cars and haute couture fashion together may seem like an odd combination. However, at the Museo Automovilistico & de la Moda , it works. Over 100 vehicles are on display here along with over 300 articles of high fashion.

Fashion and style cues are explained in fascinating detail across 10 different themes on guided tours. Famous and exclusive brands and cars are on display ranging from Chanel, Dior, and Hermes along with Rolls Royce, Jaguar, and Mercedes Benz.

The museum is located a short walk from the port area.

Stained-glass window of the Mercado de Atarazanas (Market Hall)

From the Alameda, side streets lead north to the Mercado de Atarazanas. Just the entrance is worth seeing in itself. This horseshoe-shaped Islamic gateway dates to the 14th century and is the only remaining part of the old Moorish shipyard. But even more eye-catching is the fantastic stained-glass window showing historical images of the city.

The market hall itself was constructed in the 19th century. In the 1970s, the building was completely renovated after having been closed for many years.

At this spacious market building, visitors discover a bustling scene of vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, and cheese. The morning, when the locally caught fish arrives, is the liveliest time to experience the market.

Mercado de Atarazanas (Market Hall)

It's also fun to visit the market's tapas bars later in the day for a taste of pescaíto (fried fish) and other specialties. The most striking feature of the interior is the stained-glass window that depicts the historic landmarks of Málaga.

Another area for shopping and snacking a few blocks away is the Calle Marqués de Larios , a street lined with many clothing shops, jewelry boutiques, shoe stores, confectionery shops, and cafés.

Address: Mercado de Atarazanas, Calle Atarazanas, Málaga

Museo de Málaga

The Museo de Málaga contains two museums: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Provincial Archaeology Museum. An 18th-century neoclassical mansion, the Palacio de la Aduana de Málaga houses both museum collections.

The Museum of Fine Arts has an excellent permanent collection of local 19th-century paintings, as well as renowned pieces by Spanish artists Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, Luis de Morales, Francisco de Goya, Diego Velázquez, Francisco de Zurbarán, Alonso Cano, Ramón Casas, Muñoz Degrain, Enrique Jaraba, and Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida, among others. The museum also displays two of Picasso's earliest works: the Study of Old People painting and The Old Man with the Blanket.

The Provincial Archaeology Museum exhibits Roman antiquities, a collection of Hispano-Arab pottery, and models of the castle.

Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción

La Concepción Historical-Botanical Garden was created in the mid-19th century by the Marquis and Marchioness of Loring. These exquisite grounds are filled with vibrant Mediterranean, tropical, and subtropical flora. Plant species found in the gardens come from all over the world.

At its center is the Jardín Histórico-Artístico (Historical-Artistic Garden), over three hectares of Romantic-style landscaping filled with unusual species, tropical plants, and exotic flowers. This distinctive garden also features fountains, waterfalls, and neoclassical elements.

Surrounding the Historical-Artistic Garden is the Jardín Botánico (Botanical Garden), which encompasses 23 hectares of diverse landscapes. This luxuriant garden has been designed with special thematic sections, such as aquatic plants, primitive plants, orchids, and cactuses. Other highlights include the "Around the World in 80 Trees" path and the "Scenic Stop" route.

Nestled in a delightful spot of La Concepción Garden is a cafeteria with outdoor seating. The cafeteria serves soups, salads, sandwiches, quiches, and cakes. There is also a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs.

Address: Camino del Jardín Botánico, Málaga

Basílica Nuestra Señora de la Victoria

The Basílica Nuestra Señora de la Victoria is a 10- to 15-minute walk away from the Picasso Birthplace Museum (Museo Casa Natal de Picasso), reached by way of Calle de la Victoria. One of the city's most important churches and a listed Historical Monument, this 17th-century Baroque church stands on the site where the Catholic Monarchs pitched a siege of Málaga during the Reconquest.

The church contains the Shrine of Our Lady of Victory with a 15th-century figure of the Virgen de la Victoria, the Patron Saint of the city. The figure was a gift of Emperor Maximilian I to King Ferdinand.

Among the paintings and sculptures decorating the sanctuary, highlights are the two sculptures by Pedro de Mena. Another must-see piece is the Altarpiece of San Francisco de Paula by Luis Ortiz de Vargas. The basilica houses some of its art treasures within an exhibition hall.

Address: Plaza Santuario, Málaga

Centre Pompidou Málaga

Málaga boasts the first branch of the Centre Pompidou to be located outside France. The Centre Pompidou is one of the top museums in Paris , renowned for its modern and contemporary art collection.

The Centre Pompidou Málaga displays an assortment (around 80 paintings and photographs) of the prestigious Paris collection. Highlights include works by Picasso, Max Ernst, and Frida Kahlo. The center also presents temporary exhibits every few months.

Pop in here for a quick look around and then grab lunch at one of the many waterside restaurants that line Paseo del Muelle Uno. You'll have your choice of cuisines, from Indian right through to Mexican and Greek, sometimes at the same restaurant!

Address: Pasaje Doctor Carrillo Casaux, s/n 29016 Muelle Uno, Puerto de Málaga

The Unicaja Foundation Museum of Folk Arts and Costumes is found within the Old Town of Málaga, housed in a renovated 17th-century inn. The characteristic Andalusian building reveals Moorish architectural elements such as whitewashed walls, Islamic tile work, a central patio, and pleasant gardens.

An interesting insight into the local culture, the museum introduces visitors to the region's artisan crafts and folklore. A wide array of exhibitions ranges from antique cooking equipment and fishing gear to handcrafted ceramics and folkloric costumes.

The museum includes both archaeological and ethnographic collections. Visitors leave with an appreciation of the rich artistic heritage and traditions of Málaga.

Address: 1 Plaza Enrique García-Herrera, Málaga

Holy Week Procession in Málaga, Spain

Málaga is known for its extravagant and spectacular Holy Week celebrations. This is a wonderful time to visit, when fantastic religious processions bring the city to life. The tradition of Holy Week dates back more than 500 years, from the time of the Catholic Monarchs' Reconquest of Andalusia.

A delight for all the senses, the evening processions feature lavish floats (displaying sacred icons) accompanied by lively marching bands or musicians singing flamenco songs. Adding to the ambience, thousands of penitents follow the procession route carrying flickering candles.

The Museo de la Semana Santa (Museum of Holy Week) is found on Calle Muro de San Julián, housed in the 17th-century Antiguo Hospital de San Julián (hospital). The museum displays 150 different exhibits in thematic categories such as sculptures, trousseau pictures, and processional images.

Visitors will enjoy the museum's extensive collection of religious figures, traditional costumes, and icons used during Holy Week processions, while learning about the regional customs.

Address: 2 Calle Muro de San Julián, Málaga

Centro de Arte Contemporáneo (CAC Málaga)

The cutting-edge Contemporary Art Center of Málaga displays an exceptional collection of 20th-century and 21st-century art, from the 1950s to the present. With its bright and spacious exhibition rooms, the museum presents the artworks in the best light. The collection features pieces from various artistic movements and has regularly changing exhibitions.

Artists represented include Louise Bourgeois, Olafur Eliasson, Damien Hirst, Julian Opie, Thomas Ruff, and Thomas Struth. The museum has a special focus on Spanish art created since the 1980s and displays works by renowned artists of this era such as Juan Muñoz, José María Sicilia, Miquel Barceló, and Juan Uslé.

The CAC Málaga is open year-round from Tuesday through Sunday. The museum is closed on Mondays, with a few exceptional Monday openings throughout the year. Admission to the museum is free of charge.

Address: Calle Alemania, Málaga

Apartment building in Soho (Art District)

Colorful large-scale street art defines this neighborhood near the Puerto de Málaga (harbor). Some of the murals in Soho were created by internationally known graffiti artists. Some of the largest ones can be seen on the tall buildings in the area just south of the Contemporary Art Center of Málaga.

A cultural attraction in its own right, Soho is home to the Contemporary Art Center of Málaga and the Teatro Alameda , as well as many art galleries and artists' studios.

On the first Saturday of every month, the neighborhood hosts the Made in Soho Market , which gives visitors a chance to purchase locally crafted artworks.

Malaga's Museum of Glass and Crystal

Málaga's Museum of Glass and Crystal houses a broad collection of glasswork, from antiquity to the contemporary era. Phoenician, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine cultures are represented, as well as examples of 19th-century stained glass and 20th-century Art Deco works.

The museum is housed in a beautifully restored and furnished 18th-century home, containing not only the collection of more than 3,000 glass objects, but also antiques, paintings, and décor. The museum courtyard is remarkable for its black marble columns and Baroque frescoes.

Address: 2 Plazuela Santísimo Cristo de la Sangre, Málaga

Red carpet at the Festival de Malaga (Film Festival)

This annual film festival showcases an assortment of Spanish-language films produced in Spain and Latin America. With a wide-ranging program of events, the festival includes both feature films and short films, as well as documentaries.

The prestigious Malaga Film Festival runs for nine days the second week of March each year, and screens more than a hundred films. Panel discussions and an awards ceremony make the festival interesting for attendees and film professionals alike.

The hub for the film festival is the beautiful Teatro Cervantes located by the ancient Roman theater in the shadows of the Alcazaba de Málaga.

Málaga appeals to two types of vacation-goers: those who appreciate culture and old-world ambience and those seeking fun in the sun at the Costa del Sol beaches. The historic center is convenient for visiting the Alcazaba and other top tourist attractions. For those who prefer a vacation of sunbathing and relaxation, one of the city's beach hotels is the best choice. Choose from these highly rated hotels in the Old Town or by the seaside:

Luxury Hotels:

  • In the city center (about a 20-minute walk from the Old Town) overlooking the Bay of Malaga, the stately five-star Gran Hotel Miramar GL offers elegant rooms, spa facilities, a swimming pool, gorgeous historic gardens, and stunning sea views.
  • In the Old Town, the Vincci Seleccion Posada del Patio is a five-star hotel that combines avant-garde design with traditional Andalusian elements. Amenities include an outdoor rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and gourmet restaurants. Some guest rooms feature private balconies.
  • About a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, in a trendy urban neighborhood near the waterfront, the Room Mate Valeria is a four-star boutique hotel with a pleasant terrace and Andalusian patio.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • The Room Mate Larios is near the Plaza de la Constitución, in a bustling part of the Old Town. This four-star Art Deco hotel has a lovely rooftop terrace and balconies that overlook the Calle Marqués de Larios pedestrian shopping street.
  • Also in the heart of the Old Town, the four-star Petit Palace Plaza Malaga offers easy access to great restaurants and Malaga's top cultural attractions. Contemporary-style guest rooms include soundproofing, flat-screen televisions, and hydro-massage showers.
  • The Hotel Soho Boutique Los Naranjos is steps away from the beautiful Malagueta Beach and the Pablo Picasso waterfront promenade. This three-star hotel offers cheerful rooms with soundproofing and modern amenities.
  • The Hotel Don Curro is centrally located near the Old Town, just a five-minute walk from the cathedral and Picasso Museum. This three-star hotel has spacious guest rooms with stylish details like parquet floors, sleek modern furniture, and marble-accented bathrooms.

Budget Hotels :

  • The three-star Hotel La Chancla stands next to a small, sheltered beach and is a 10-minute drive from the Old Town of Malaga. Guest rooms are bright and minimalistic in style. The hotel has an outdoor terrace with sea views.
  • The Sunset Beach Club is a four-star beachfront resort that boasts excellent amenities for the price: rooms with terraces or balconies, a swimming pool and poolside snack bar, a seaside restaurant with an outdoor terrace, and concierge services.
  • Slightly on the higher end but still affordable, the three-star beachfront Hotel Soho Boutique Las Vegas keeps guests happy with direct access to sandy shores and a swimming pool in a picturesque garden setting.
  • To Britain and Back in a Day: The full-day sightseeing trip from Málaga to Gibraltar is a wonderful option if you want to visit this small British territory. You'll spend time with a knowledgeable guide here and see the famous Rock of Gibraltar, as well as St. Michael's Cave, a set of enormous cliffside caverns. Other sights include the famous Barbary monkeys and the lighthouse at Europa Point.

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Exploring Andalusia: Málaga is home to several of the top tourist attractions in the Andalusia region of Spain, as are the cities of Córdoba , Granada, and Seville. Those touring Andalusia by car will also want to explore the charming Pueblos Blancos (White Villages) , which exemplify simple Moorish architecture.

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Granada and the Alhambra: Many tourists head straight for the Alhambra , once the fortified home of the Moorish Nasrid Dynasty Sultans. Here, you will find a complex of lavishly designed palaces, which open out onto lush courtyards filled with flowers and a rich history. The city of Granada is packed with tourist attractions, from the Old Town and its spice markets to traditional flamenco performances.

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Seville and its Gothic Cathedral: The enchanting city of Seville is home to amazing landmarks, such as the glorious Gothic Seville Cathedral and the Alcázar, a splendid Moorish palace. Other highlights include the Plaza de España, Parque de María Luisa, and the medieval Barrio Santa Cruz. For those spending a longer time in the city, Seville is a great base for taking day trips to nearby historic towns like Córdoba and Ronda or to explore Cádiz and the Costa de la Luz.

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Visit Malaga: Top 15 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in malaga: the 15 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Malaga during your trip to Andalucia and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

In order to help you plan your stay , i have prepared this guide of the best things to do in Malaga and its surroundings . In addition to the must-see attractions and points of interest , I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accommodations in town depending on your budget.

Let’s plan your trip!

1. The Alcazaba of Malaga

2. gibralfaro castle, 3. malaga roman theater, 4. the malaga cathedral, 5. museums to visit in malaga, 6. malaga beaches, 7. la concepción historical botanical gardens, 8. the atarazanas market, 9. soho neighborhood, 10. montes de malaga natural park, 11. caminito del rey, 12. nerja caves, 13. marbella, 15. granada, how many days to visit malaga, 1 day in malaga, 2 days in malaga, 3 days in malaga, 4 days in malaga, where to stay in malaga, where to eat in malaga, renting a boat in malaga, how to go to malaga, malaga tourist map, you’re traveling to andalusia these articles will help you, visit malaga: the 15 must-see attractions.

The Alcazaba is probably the most well-known tourist attraction in Malaga.

Built in the 11th century by the Moors , this palace was both the home of Muslim rulers and a fortress to protect and defend the city from the Catholics.

The site is very well preserved and maintained . During your visit you’ll discover the courtyards, patios, fountains and sumptuous gardens . As it’s built on a hill overlooking Malaga, it offers a lovely view over the sea and port .

There’s also a small archaeological museum showcasing Moorish pottery and ceramics.

If you want to know more about the history of the place, you should book a 1h30 guided tour of the Alcazaba . It even includes the Roman theater ruins (see below). You can book it here.

You can get a combined ticket at 5.50€ to visit both the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro castle.

Alcazaba Malaga

Another place you must visit in Malaga is Gibralfaro castle.

From the Alcazaba , you can go to the castle on foot via a path offering great views over the city. It is however a bit steep , so if you prefer, you can take the bus # 35 from the Avenida de Cervantes to go there.

The castle was built in the 14th century to protect the Alcazaba. It had a barrack to house soldiers , as well as a lighthouse. That’s actually where the castle got its name from: Gibralfaro means “mountain of light”.

There is a building right at the entrance to learn more about the history of the castle, but the visit is mainly worth it for the view over Malaga and the sea from the ramparts . On clear days it’s even possible to see the Strait of Gibraltar.

It’s the best scenic view over the Malaga, and it’s also very nice at night with all the city lights.

Malaga Andalucia

Another great thing to do in Malaga is to visit the Roman theater located at the bottom of the Alcazaba.

It’s the oldest site in Malaga: it was built in the first century AD by Augustus and was used as a theater during the 2nd century . Then, it was converted into a cemetery to finally be abandoned . Some of the rocks from this site were used to build the Alcazaba.

The Roman theater ruins were only discovered in 1951 , when the building that was built on top was destroyed.

Nowadays, many outdoor performances are taking place there .

Entrance is free.

Don’t forget that if you book a guided tour of the Alcazaba here , it also includes a guided visit to the Roman theatre.

Malaga Roman Theater

The cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Malaga.

It’s one of the tallest in Andalucia , you can see it from far away! Construction work started in the 16th century , on the foundations of the city’s old mosque .

Construction lasted for 200 years , and got suddenly halted because of a lack of funding . As a result, the cathedral was never completely finished , and has only one bell tower (whereas 2 were planned to be build). Locals even call it “La Manquita” (meaning the armless one).

You can climb the 200 steps to go up the 87 meters high tower : you’ll be able to enjoy a 360° scenic view over the whole city, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro castle.

Don’t miss out on the interiors either to see the decorated ceiling , the beautiful stained-glass windows , the chapels or even the 4000 pipes organ.

For more information about prices and opening hours, you can have a look at the official website (in Spanish).

You’re going to Malaga?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Malaga 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Malaga on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Malaga.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Malaga, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Malaga!

The Alcazaba and Malaga Cathedral

You may not know about it, but there are a lot of museums in Malaga . Actually, with almost 30 museums , the city has proudly become the cultural capital of Andalucia.

Here is a list of museums to visit during your trip to Malaga (depending on your tastes and interests):

  • Picasso Birthplace Museum (get you tickets here) : where he was born in 1881. You’ll learn more about his life and will see some of his personal belongings on display.
  • Picasso Museum with more than 200 artworks from the artist
  • Carmen Thyssen Museum with its extensive collection of Spanish and Andalusian paintings
  • Pompidou Centre Malaga , is a branch of the famous Pompidou Centre in Paris
  • Russian Art Museum offers a collection of Russian art pieces in an old tobacco factory
  • Museo de Malaga with an archaeology section, a Moorish section and a Spanish paintings section.
  • Flamenco Art Museum dedicated to the traditional Spanish dance.
  • Museum of Glass and Crystal to see the private collection of an Andalusian aristocrat
  • Malaga Centre for Contemporary Art dedicated to 20th and 21th century art
  • Automobile Museum Malaga and its 85 perfectly renovated vintage cars.
  • National Museum of Airports and Air Transport
  • Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions

Pompidou Centre Malaga

During your trip to Malaga, it would be a shame not to enjoy the beaches close by . They are perfect to relax a bit!

Here is a selection of the best beaches around Malaga:

  • Malagueta beach located next to the port, it’s the closest from the city center
  • Pedregalejo beach , located a bit East of Malagueta
  • La Caleta beach, very crowded during summertime
  • El Palo beach, a family-friendly beach located in the fishermen neighborhood
  • La Misericordia beach , a large sandy beach, one of the most popular in Malaga
  • El Campo de Golf beach very popular among kite-surfers
  • San Andrés beach, another popular beach, there is also a grassy areas and a playground
  • Penon del Cuervo beach: young people love it, it’s a great place to party and have a barbecue!

Malagueta beach

Malaga botanical garden is located in the Northern part of the city.

You can take the bus #2 to go there from the city center, get off at the last stop and walk for another 15min to reach the garden entrance.

It’s one of the largest tropical and subtropical garden in Spain and even Europe. You’ll see there more than 2000 species of trees and plants spread over about 250 000 m². Malaga botanical garden is the perfect spot for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city!

It’s clearly one must see attractions in Malaga.

For more information, you can visit the official website . Guided tours are also available: you can choose between 3 types of themed tours, lasting from 1 to 4 hours.

La Concepción Historical Botanical Gardens Malaga

Let’s continue this guide of Malaga with Atarazanas market.

When you travel somewhere, whether it’s in Spain, Sicilia or even Greece , the market is always the best place to get some delicious local products . In Malaga, I recommend going to the Atrazanas market.

This covered market is located in a stunning 19th century building with colorful stained-glass windows. It’s a very vibrant place with plenty of fresh produces stalls, Spanish cured meat and cheese.

You’ll also find tapas bars close to the main entrance, a nice way to try all these fresh and tasty products!

The market is open Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 to 14:00. It is closed on Sunday.

Atarazanas market in Malaga

Running out of ideas about what to do in Malaga? You should go for a walk in Soho district!

Once a decaying neighborhood, it has been totally transformed and renovated by street artists. Some buildings and facades are today completely covered with street art , the biggest painting being a few stories tall! The area is also called the art district.

Most art works are located close to the Contemporary Art Centre of Malaga , along the banks of the Guadalmedina river and in nearby streets. Wandering in this part of the town is really pleasant.

In this neighborhood you’ll also find handicraft shops , art galleries, restaurants serving world cuisine and a few trendy bars.

Soho district Malaga

During your stay in Malaga, you should really go to Montes Natural Park. It’s really the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air not too far from the city!

Considered as “Malaga’s green lung” , it’s located about 25km up North from the city center.

The park is 5000 hectares wide, with marked paths for hiking. Most of the hiking paths suit all levels and are not very long, so you can easily combine a few during a day.

It’s also possible to rent mountain bikes and ride along the 2 mountain bike trails . You can choose between a 7km or a 14km itinerary .

The park is well equipped with picnic areas and even a few restaurants serving “ plato de los montes “. This mountain dish is a local speciality: it’s made of pork loin, sausages, blood sausage and eggs, with a side dish of potatoes and fried bell peppers. Needless to say it should satisfy your hunger!

You can also go see the ecomuseum located in the visitor center , explaining how wine, bread or olive oil are made.

All the necessary information to plan your trip to Montes de Malaga Natural Park is on the official website.

Montes de Malaga Natural Park

The 5 best things to do around Malaga?

If you’re done exploring Malaga itself, you should go visit its surroundings. Here are my favorite places to visit around Malaga.

The caminito del Rey is located about 1h driving from Malaga.

It’s a very spectacular hiking path , once considered the most dangerous one in the world . But don’t worry, it has been completely secured and rearranged so it’s 100% safe now.

However, as the path is more than 100 meters above the ground , it’s still very impressive!

Beware if you’re afraid of heights: once you’ve started the hike, you can’t go back. The path is only one way so you must finish it.

If you want, you can book a guided tour to the Caminito del Rey . The guide will be with you during the whole hike and will give you information about the site’s history . These kind of tours are often fully booked weeks in advance, so you must book it in advance here.

And if you also want to have transportation from Malaga to the Caminito, you can book a day-tour . Fare includes transportation by minibus from Malaga to the Caminito del Rey, entrance ticket and hiking with a guide. It needs to be booked there.

caminito del rey Andalucia

Around Malaga, you can also go to Nerja, about 50min away by car.

Going to see Nerja caves can be a great family excursion to do in the area! The caves were discovered by chance in 1959, and are home to one of the widest and tallest column in the world.

A regular visit (without a guide) lasts about 45min. There are audioguides available to learn more about the history of the caves and their discovery. There are many steps and it’s quite cold, so remember to wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes

You need to book your tickets to visit the caves of Nerja in advance by clicking here!

Nerja caves Andalucia

Marbella is located 1 hour driving from Malaga.

It’s the most chic and trendy costal resort of the Costa del Sol, in Andalucia. There, you will find plenty of luxury shops, VIP bars and clubs along with 20km of beach to relax all day long.

If you like to party , Marbella is the best place to go to near Malaga!

Marbella

Ronda is another great place to visit around Malaga , at only about 1.5 hours driving .

This lovely village located on the top of a hill is mostly famous for the bridge that connects the old and the new parts of the village . It’s featured on all the postcards you can find in the area!

To access the best viewpoints , you will need to go to Plaza Maria Auxiliadora , then go down the path. You can take a perfect photo of the village and the bridge from there.

In Ronda, you can also go for a walk in the narrow streets and visit the bullfighting arena, Mondragon palace or La Casa Del Rey Moro.

If you’d like to go to Ronda on a guided tour , you can book one that will start from Malaga .

Transportation, guided tour of Ronda, the arena and visit of a wine cellar are included in the price of the tour. You can book it here.

Fore more information about Ronda, you should read my detailed guide about the village: The 10 best things to do in Ronda

Ronda

Granada , one of the most famous city in Andalucia is located only 1h40 away from Malaga.

The city is known all over the world for its famous Alhambra . It’s the most visited tourist site in Spain.

It would be a shame not to go spend at least 1 day in Granada while you’re in Malaga!

Besides the Alhambra, you can also visit:

  • The Albaicin neighborhood
  • The Sacromonte
  • Granada cathedral
  • The Basilica of San Juan de Dios
  • La Cartuja monestary

If you’re in Marbella and don’t want to rent a car, you should book a day-tour to Granada.

The price includes transportation, entrance tickets for the Alhambra and the Nasrid palaces as well as a visit of the Albaicin neigborhood. It needs to be booked here.

For more information about Granada, you should read my detailed guide: The 15 best things to do in Granada .

Granada Spain

If you just want to visit the city itself, 2 days are enough to visit Malaga. You’ll have enough time to see most of the places I talk about in this guide.

If you want to visit several museums or explore the city’s surroundings , you can of course stay for 3 or 4 days in Malaga.

If you’re in Malaga only for one day , here is my recommended itinerary:

  • Start with Gibralfaro castle
  • Then go down to the Alcazaba
  • Stop by the Roman theater
  • Lunch break
  • Visit the Picasso museum or another museum depending on your tastes
  • Go see Malaga Cathedral
  • End the day at the beach

If you don’t want to walk too much but still want to see as many tourist sites as possible within a day, you should opt for the hop-on hop-off bus. You need to book it here.

During your booking you can also choose the “Malaga Experience Card” option: it includes the bus ticket, but also free entrance to most museums in the city, a 1 hour boat tour and a ticket to see a flamenco show.

For 2 days in Malaga, add the following activities to the 1 day itinerary above:

  • Visit Carmen Thyssen museum or the Pompidou Centre
  • Go explore Atarazanas market
  • Lunch break in one of the market’s tapas bar
  • Go for a stroll in Soho neighborhood
  • By the end of the day, head to the botanical garden

tapas Andalucia

You’re planning to visit Malaga in 3 days? Great!

I recommend following the 2 days itinerary above.

On the 3rd day , rent a car to go to Montes Natural Park . You’ll be able to go on a few short hikes there and enjoy the surrounding nature.

In the afternoon on your way back, stop by one of the beaches such as Pedregalejo or del Palo beach.

To rent a car, I recommend using Rentalcars.com .

If you’re lucky enough to spend 4 days in Malaga, you can go explore the city’s surroundings.

  • If you have children, you can visit Nerja caves , they will love it!
  • If you like thrill, a day trip to the Caminito del Rey will be perfect for you.
  • In the mood for a day at the beach and party? Head to Marbella.

If you don’t plan to stay in other cities in Andalucia, you can also opt for a day trip to Ronda or Granada . You will love these cities!

Of course, you can stay 5- 6 days or even a week in Malaga and visit absolutely eveything I talk about in this article, with day trips to the Caminito del Rey, Ronda and Granada.

  • The Lights Hostel: This hostel located 400 meters from the cathedral. A bed in a dorm starts from 20.50€/night with a breakfast at 1.50€. Strong points: clean, nice rooftop, very friendly staff.
  • Ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad: Located next to the cathedral and 5 min from the Picasso museum. Modern double room (typical style of this hotel chain) starting from 65€/night, breakfast for an additional 7.95€. Its best features: very central location to visit Malaga on foot, many breakfast options. friendly staff. It’s my favorite hotel for its exceptional value for money!
  • Barceló Malaga: located 10 min walking from the historic quarter and 600 meters from the Center for Contemporary Art. Comfortable and design room starting from 135€/night, breakfast for an additional 18€. Best features: Rooftop pool, location, beds are very comfortable. It’s a great place to stay in Malaga.
  • Gran Hotel Miramar: This 5 stars hotel is located 10 meters away from the Malagueta beach. Very elegant and beautifully decorated room, starting from 250€/night, breakfast for an additional 25€. Its best features: the decoration of the hotel and the rooms is truly stunning, the pool, the Spa, the breakfast is delicious. The best choice for a luxury stay in Malaga!

Grand Hotel Miramar Malaga

  • Buenavista Gastrobar & Tapas: located next to the plaza de la Merced. This restaurant serves delicious and unique tapas. The paella is also very tasty and the staff is very friendly. You can be sure to have a good time there, just remember to book a table in advance!
  • La Proa de Teatinos: If you’re looking for an authentic restaurant that is the opposite of a tourist trap, go eat at the Proa de Teatinos. The food is tasty and the value for money is excellent. The paella is delicious.
  • Pampa Grill Restaurante Argentino: The best restaurant in Malaga for meat lovers. The meat is super tender, tasty and perfectly cooked. It’s located close to the plaza Spinola, not far from the cathedral.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Malaga, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your sea trip in Malaga? 😊

The first option is to directly fly there , as there is an international airport in Malaga.

In Andalucia, there are 2 international airports: Seville and Malaga . Granada, Jerez and Almeria airports are only for domestic flights.

You should check fares now with our flights price comparator. It’s a fast and easy way to get the best deal!

When you get the results, don’t hesitate to look at several websites to make sure there are no added fees.

I have created for you a tourist map of Malaga , listing all the must see attractions and points of interest I have talked about in this article. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow on it.

And you, what do you plan to visit during your trip to Malaga?

Andalusia travel Guides

  • Buy the DK Eyewitness Andalusia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
  • Buy the Lonely Planet Andalusia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
  • Buy the Rick Steves Snapshot Andalusia guide on Amazon.com

Discover all my articles about Spain : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Spain are listed there.

The 20 Best Things to Do in Andalucia : The ultimate bucket list!

  • Itinerary: 4-5 days in Andalucia – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Andalucia!
  • Itinerary: 1 week in Andalucia – With all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
  • Itinerary: 10 days in Andalucia – Discover how to visit Andalucia in 10 days, with all my best tips!
  • Itinerary: 2 weeks in Andalucia – The best itinerary to visit Andalucia in 14-15 days
  • Cadiz: The 12 things you must-see in town!
  • Cordoba: Top 15 best things to do and must-see attractions
  • Granada: Top 15 best things to do
  • Ronda: The 10 best things to do
  • Seville: Top 15 best things to do and places to visit

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

visit Malaga

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 4 comments.

Afila

I’m going to spend a half day trip in Malaga so I won’t be having a lot of time to discover everything. I want to make the most out of this half day in Malaga. I plan on going to the Alcazaba, Roman theater ruins and the Gibralfaro castle and also visit some museums. Are these places walkable distance to each other? Are there many free museums in the list you mentioned? Where can I buy the combo ticket for Alcazaba, Roman theater and the Gibralfaro castle?

I have to leave Malaga in the evening and go to Cordoba. I have to reach Cordoba at least at 8PM.

What is the most convenient way for me to travel from Malaga to Cordoba? Bus or train? Also, I will be travelling from Seville to Malaga in the morning. Are there left luggage services or lockers at the train station or bus station or anywhere nearby the stations? I need to think about my luggage as well, any advice on this?

Thank you in advance.

Vincent

Hello Afila,

Yes, all the places you want to visit in Malaga are close to each others. You can see them on the map at the end of the article.

There is no free museum in the list, they are only free on Sunday afternoon.

You can buy the combo ticket for the Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro castle at both entrances. It’s not possible to buy it online. The Roman theatre is free.

For the bus and train, you have to check for the schedules that will suit you the best on the website I gave you in my previous answer: Train and bus tickets booking in Spain.

The train is in my opinion more convenient, and you can leave your luggage in the lockers at Malaga train station, no problem.

Enjoy your stay in Malaga!

Ive

Your tips were really useful and helped us a lot. Made our stay more comfortable and planing our routes more easy.

Thank you and keep up the good work!

Thank you! I’m glad you had a great time in Malaga.

Have a nice day,

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Must-see attractions in Málaga

buenavista palace which houses the picasso museum

Museo Picasso Málaga

This unmissable museum in the city of Picasso’s birth provides a solid overview of the great master and his work, although, surprisingly, it only came to…

Malaga

Catedral de Málaga

Málaga’s elaborate cathedral was started in the 16th century on the site of the former mosque. Of the mosque, only the Patio de los Naranjos survives, a…

Alcazaba, Malaga, Andulucia, Spain

No time to visit Granada’s Alhambra? Then Málaga’s Alcazaba can provide a taster. The entrance is beside the Roman theatre, from where a meandering path…

malaga tourist attractions

Jardín Botánico Histórico La Concepción

These exotic gardens were conceived in the mid-19th century by the Loring-Heredia clan, a noble family of railway builders and bankers who bequeathed the…

Carmen Thyssen Museum in Malaga, Spain.

Museo Carmen Thyssen

Located in an aesthetically renovated 16th-century palace in the heart of the city’s former Moorish quarter, this extensive collection concentrates on…

Facade of the Russian museum (Saint Petersburg collection) in Malaga, Spain.

Museo Ruso de Málaga

Housed in a former tobacco factory, this offshoot of St Petersburg's Russian State Museum is dedicated to Russian art from the 16th to 20th centuries. It…

MALAGA, SPAIN - AUGUST 08: Soho Area on August 08, 2015 in Malaga, Spain. It is the second most populous city of Andalusia and the sixth largest in Spain.; Shutterstock ID 338884481; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: Digital Content/Sights

The antithesis of Málaga's prestigious world-class art museums is refreshingly down-to-earth MAUS, a grassroots movement born out of an influx of street…

malaga tourist attractions

Museo Automovilístico Málaga

Fashion and old cars might seem like weird bedfellows, but they’re an inspired combo when viewed through the prism of this slightly out-of-the-box museum…

Museo de Málaga

Spread out over two floors in Málaga’s neoclassical Palacio de Aduana, this vast, newly renovated museum houses art and archaeological collections. The…

Woman on wall near narrow rampart of Castillo de Gibralfaro, originally built 8th century, looking at view from on high of Malaga, Costa del Sol, Andalucia, Spain

Castillo de Gibralfaro

One remnant of Málaga’s Islamic past is the craggy ramparts of the Castillo de Gibralfaro, spectacularly located high on the hill overlooking the city…

Pedestrians Walking Down A Path Lined With Palm Trees

Paseo de España

Looking like a mini-jungle when viewed from the Gibralfaro hill, this palm-lined extension of the Alameda was created in the 1890s on land reclaimed from…

Pompidou Centre, Malaga, Andalusia, Spain

Centre Pompidou Málaga

Down by Málaga's port, this offshoot of Paris' Pompidou Centre is housed in a low-slung modern building crowned by artist Daniel Buren's playful…

Playa de la Malagueta during off season.

Playa de la Malagueta

Where malagueños come to play (and take their morning exercise), the Playa de la Malagueta is the city's main beach and is both sandy and close to the…

Teatro Romano

The story of the unearthing of Málaga's Roman theatre is almost as interesting as the theatre itself. Dating from the time of Augustus (1st century AD),…

Casa Natal de Picasso

For an intimate insight into the painter’s childhood, head to the Casa Natal de Picasso, the house where Picasso was born in 1881. Now a study foundation,…

Centro de Arte Contemporáneo

The contemporary-art museum is housed in a skilfully converted 1930s wholesale market on the river estuary. The bizarre triangular floor plan of the…

Museo del Vidrio y Cristal

The more-interesting-than-it-sounds glass museum is housed in a palatial 18th-century house, complete with three central patios, in a charmingly…

Come here for the architecture alone: this fabulous Modernista building has dazzling tile work, courtyards and fountains, and has been a military hospital…

The city's long-beleaguered port area underwent a radical rethink in 2013 and was redesigned to cater to the increase in cruise-ship passengers. Wide…

Alameda Principal

The Alameda Principal, now a busy thoroughfare, was created in the late 18th century as a boulevard on what were then the sands of the Guadalmedina…

Museo Revello de Toro

Showcases the work of 20th-century Málaga artist Félix Revello de Toro (b 1926) in a 17th-century mansion that was once the workshop of religious sculptor…

Museo de Arte Flamenco

Laid out over two floors in the HQ of Málaga's oldest and most prestigious peña (flamenco club), this collection of photos, posters, costumes, fans,…

Spain, Andalucia Region, Malaga Province

Mercado Atarazanas

North of the city's main artery, the Alameda Principal, you’ll find this striking 19th-century iron-clad building incorporating the original Moorish gate…

Museo Interactivo de la Música Málaga

This modern museum houses musical instruments from around the world and across the passage of history. The collection is pretty well laid out in…

Worth visiting for the building alone, a grand bishop's palace opposite the cathedral with an imposing portico, intricate tile work and head-tilting…

Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares

Located in a 17th-century inn, the Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares specialises in everyday rural and urban life of the past; note the barros …

Mirador Princess

In common with many cities, Málaga has adopted a touristic big wheel by its port. Measuring 70m tall, it's good for views over the city. The 42 capsules…

Sala de Exposiciones

As well as running the Casa Natal de Picasso, the Fundación Picasso owns this small exposition space across the square from the casa. It shuffles a…

Museo Jorge Rando

One of Málaga’s newest museums exhibits the work of one of its most contemporary artists. Rando is now in his 70s, and his abstract paintings and…

Museo Aula del Mar

This small aquarium in the port includes some hands-on exhibits for children, such as whale bones and sea urchins.

Playa de Pedregalejo

This beach is flanked by seafood restaurants, mainly frequented by locals and serving some of the best fried seafood and fish in the city.

Playa el Palo

With its attractive promenade lined with bars and seafood restaurants, this is a popular beach for locals at weekends.

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The Crazy Tourist

Home » Travel Guides » Spain » 15 Best Things to Do in Málaga (Spain)

15 Best Things to Do in Málaga (Spain)

Known to many as the capital of the Costa del Sol , Málaga is more than a seaside city. You can learn about Spain’s Islamic past at the majestic Alcazaba fortress palace, while Pablo Picasso was born here, so there are museums that shed light on his early years.

And during the city’s famous festivals you can also get to know Andalusian culture, watching flamenco shows and quaffing sherry, in the part of the country where they originate. And in case you needed reminding, the world-renowned beaches, resorts and golf courses of the Costa del Sol could hardly be closer.

1. La Alcazaba

La Alcazaba

With powerful walls visible from almost anywhere in the city, Málaga’s Alcazaba is a Moorish fortress palace and valuable monument from the Islamic era.

It was first erected in the 8th century and was bolstered and expanded over the next five hundred years. On this hill are two sets of walls protecting an inner and outer citadel.

The outer citadel contains the palace’s stunning gardens with fountains and gateways that the Arabs built out of old Roman columns.

Within the second set of walls is the palace and stately dwellings that are spread across three peaceful courtyard gardens.

2. Roman Theatre

Roman Theatre, Malaga

Just down the hill, beyond the outer walls of the Alcazaba is the best ancient monument in the city.

The theatre was in use for around 300 years up to the 200s but then was forgotten about and even used as a quarry during the Moorish period.

The structure was only rediscovered in 1951 and considering all its been through is actually in pretty good shape today.

Several tiers of seating of the 16 metre-high cavea (spectator’s circle) remain undamaged and there’s a recently-opened visitor centre showing off some of the finds at the site including amphorae and everyday tools.

3. Málaga Cathedral

Málaga Cathedral

The city’s cathedral took more than 150 years to build, and so is a kind of melange of renaissance and baroque styles.

The facade for example was one of the last parts to be completed and is suitably grand, with arches, columns pillasters and stone reliefs depicting saints.

The cathedral’s north tower is 84 metres-tall, second only in Andalusia to La Giralda in Seville.

There was supposed to be a South Tower, but instead the funds for this were diverted to help America gain independence from the British.

You can read about this on the cathedral’s information plaque where the tower should have been.

4. Castillo de Gibralfaro

Castillo de Gibralfaro

Like the Alcazaba this hilltop fortress looms above the city. It’s a majestic landmark that you might recognise from Málaga and the wider province’s emblems.

Unlike the Alcazaba the site has a more warlike purpose, with lookout towers and ramparts that are still standing today, competing with the pines on the hillside.

There has been a fortress here since the Phoenicians more than 2,500 years ago and this castle was the scene of a pivotal siege in 1487.

The Muslim Malagueños held out against King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella for three months before surrendering when they ran out of food.

5. Museo del Vidrio

Museo del Vidrio

This intriguing little museum is in a lovely old house from the 1700s, with exposed beams in the ceilings, period furniture and tasteful decoration.

What people come to see though is the large collection of antique glassware that spans several thousand years.

There are pieces from a range of ancient civilisations: Phoenicians, Romans, Ancient Greeks and Egyptians.

Check out the green Roman glass bowl, still intact 2,000 years later.

Then further on you’ll see beautiful Venetian items, glassware from  the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age and a collection of English lead glass including jugs and wine cups from the 1500s.

6. Atarazanas Market

Atarazanas Market

As with much of Spain, the central market is such a focal point of daily life in Málaga that you have to see it for yourself.

Locals favour the stalls at Atarazanas for freshness, and because the prices are reasonable.

It’s also just a lovely building, with an elegant iron and glass canopy,  Mudéjar arches and a magnificent stained-glass window.

Come to buy all the usual market produce, like fruit & veg, meat (both raw and cured), cheese, fresh bread and some local honey or sherry.

There are also bars where you can get a tapa to go with a cold glass of cruzcampo.

7. Parque de Málaga

Parque de Málaga

When the heat is on, this esplanade is like diving into the undergrowth, and you’ll be surprised how cool it can be, even in the summer.

The broad, lush fronds of the towering palm trees provide ample shade over the three main walkways.

There’s also something surreal about seeing ornate pieces of baroque and renaissance sculptures and fountains surrounded by subtropical plants.

In front of the City Council building is a beautiful rose garden, ringed by orange trees and cypresses.

8. Automobile and Fashion Museum

Automobile and Fashion Museum

Here’s an attraction that celebrates the finer things in life. Both guys and girls will find something to admire.

For the blokes there are 100 classic cars, including Maseratis, Cadillacs, Aston Martins and Bugattis.

The collection goes back to the earliest years of automotive travel with a De Dion Bouton from 1903.

As you journey through the decades, from the roaring 20s to the 1950s Dolce Vita era the museum adds historical context to models on show.

You can make a similar trip through the years in the seven fashion galleries, where 200 original pieces of haute-couture are on display.

9. Picasso’s Málaga

Picasso's Málaga

Pablo Picasso was born in Málaga, so no trip can be complete without paying tribute to this 20th-century icon.

Head first to his birthplace, or Casa Natal, on Plaza de la Merced.

It’s a few minutes on foot from all the city’s landmarks, and his parents rented the first floor for a couple of years at the start of the 1880s.

There’s a small collection of his artwork, as well as artefacts from his youth.

A larger display of his paintings can be seen at the Picasso Museum a couple of minutes away (tickets can be booked here ).

Much of these are from his formative early-20th century years (Olga Khokhlova with Mantilla, 1917) but they illustrate the artist’s growth in that time.

10. Beaches

Malagueta Beach

La Malagueta on the city’s waterfront is good enough, but is right up against the busy N-340 and can be packed out in summer.

Still, the Costa del Sol is Europe’s sun and sand paradise, so you won’t have trouble finding a better beach close by.

Those who know hop in the car and go to Torremolinos, a pleasant 20-minute drive away.

The Blue Flag-winning La Misericordia is a delightful sandy bay, broad and long, and washed by moderate waves.

Los Alamos is just as lovely, but a bit more developed with apartment complexes to the rear and beachside concerts in the summer.

11. Málaga Football Club

La Rosaleda

In the northern suburbs is La Rosaleda, a marvellous stadium with a 30,000 capacity.

Its home team, Málaga CF, has been in the Primera División for almost a decade now.

For a period Málaga underwent huge investment from their Qatari owner, which propelled them to the Champions’ League, but he has stopped pumping money into the club so they have fallen back a bit.

At any rate, every other week from August to May you can see matches from Europe’s best league here, and there’s also a stadium tour and museum documenting Málaga CF’s famous players and trophies.

12. Espetos

Espetos

If you want to try a dish that is completely local, then you can’t go wrong with espeto (grilled sardine) at a local chiringuito (beachfront bar).

The classic way to make these is to dig a hole in the sand and make a fire, then roast the sardines over the embers.

Long, thick canes are normally used to skewer the sardines and when they’re done you can enjoy them with a squeeze of lemon and glass of crisp white wine.

There’s even a statue of an “Espetero” cooking sardines on Málaga’s Paseo Marítimo de Antonio Machado.

13. Semana Santa

Semana Santa Malaga

Holy Week is of course a big deal across Spain, but in Andalusia and especially Málaga it takes on a profound significance.

This is partly because the Catholic brotherhoods here (organising and taking part) are perhaps more prominent than in other places around Spain.

They’ll hold masses throughout the year and have more manpower to get things organised for the big week.

The spectacular floats that they carry on processions taking place from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday can be several metres tall, and the Virgin statues are often lavishly decorated.

There’s also a different feeling among Malagueños during Holy Week compared to other Spanish cities; it’s much less sombre and more exuberant here.

14. Feria de Agosto

Feria de Agosto

Málaga’s a great city to visit at any time of year, but in August it’s a little more special.

In medieval times it was one of the very last cities on the Iberian peninsula to return to Christian rule after the Islamic era.

Málaga was taken on 14 August 1487, and this event is commemorated by the week-long festival on the third week of August every year.

More than anything it gives you a good look at Andalusian culture, as toasts are made with fino (sherry), there are plenty of flamenco performances and there are daily bullfights at La Malagueta.

The streets of the city are lovely at this time too, decorated with flowers and paper lanterns.

Golf Course in Malaga

After all, you are on the Costa del Sol, and this means that you can barely go a few kilometres without tripping over a top-notch golf course.

10 kilometres along the coast from the city is Parador de Málaga, an 18-hole course that welcomes players of all abilities.

So if you need to rediscover your swing then this is the place for you.

It’s in an invigorating landscape of dunes, palms and eucalyptus trees, and is one of the oldest courses in the country, dating to the 1920s.

On the western fringe of the city is Guadalhorce, an 18-hole course where you can play a fairly forgiving front nine, or go straight to a back-nine loaded with hazards that will test the best.

Further reading: Best places to visit in Spain

15 Best Things to Do in Málaga (Spain):

  • La Alcazaba
  • Roman Theatre
  • Málaga Cathedral
  • Castillo de Gibralfaro
  • Museo del Vidrio
  • Atarazanas Market
  • Parque de Málaga
  • Automobile and Fashion Museum
  • Picasso's Málaga
  • Málaga Football Club
  • Semana Santa
  • Feria de Agosto

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20 Must-Visit Attractions in Málaga, Spain

Málaga Alcazaba I

Málaga is home to some of Andalusia’s greatest historical monuments, such as the Moorish Alcazaba fortress and the stunning Roman amiptheatre. But that’s not all: from a restaurant where you can eat kangaroo while enjoying live flamenco to a museum showcasing the works of a Málaga-born painter who revolutionised 20th century painting, here are the city’s top 20 attractions.

1. cathedral.

Cathedral, Church, Mosque

malaga tourist attractions

Málaga’s great cathedral , one of the city’s key architectural attractions, is known locally as ‘La Manquita’, or ‘The One-Armed Woman’, due to its uncompleted second tower. Built between 1528 and 1782 near to the site of an early Almohad mosque, original plans for this huge Renaissance and Baroque-style cathedral had included two towers, but the second was never built because of a lack of funds. Construction dragged on for over two hundred years before the Mayor of Málaga commissioned Aragonese architect José Martín de Aldehuela (1729–1802) to finish the cathedral off in the late 18th century. Aldehuela’s other iconic contributions to the province include Ronda ’s stunning ‘New Bridge’ and bullring.

2. Alcazaba

Archaeological site, Building, Museum

56-3699880-15827976175-3df7f7d134-k

The Moorish rulers of southern Spain built the Alcazaba fortress – the best-preserved Moorish citadel in Spain – on the remains of a Roman fortification around the middle of the 8th century. Though it doesn’t have the grand interiors of its more famous counterpart in Granada , this amazingly preserved fortress is every bit as beguiling as the Alhambra. The fort was extensively rebuilt by the Sultan of Granada in the 11th century and connected up to the nearby Gibralfaro Castle by a Nasrid King in the 14th century. One of the most notable features of the Alcazaba is how effortlessly it fits into the hillside above Málaga, while inside it is a maze of secret courtyards, open-air corridors and battlements that command incredible views out to sea and over the city’s rooftops.

3. Roman Theatre

3. Roman Theatre

Málaga’s Roman theatre is the oldest monument in the city and one of the few remaining Roman structures in Andalusia. Its location at the foot of the Alcazaba makes this part of Málaga’s centre one of the most historically significant – and beautiful – sites in southern Spain. Built during the 1st century AD, the theatre was in use until the 3rd century AD, after which it fell into misuse until the Moors settled in Málaga in the 8th century. They showed little respect for this once-magnificent place of entertainment, and plundered it for material with which to build the Alcazaba. Only in 1951 was it rediscovered – during the construction of an arts centre, fittingly – and it opened to the public in 2011 after a complicated and lengthy restoration. Now it once again stages concerts and plays and features an informative visitors’ centre.

Teatro Romano, Calle Alcazabilla, S/N, Málaga, Spain , +34 951 50 11 15

malaga tourist attractions

Malaga’s Alcazaba, with the Roman theatre in the foreground I © Ronny Siegel/Flickr

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5. El Pimpi restaurant

Bar, Restaurant, Wine Bar, Bodega, Spanish, Tapas

Bodega Bar El Pimpi

No visit to Málaga would be complete without a visit to El Pimpi , one of the city’s oldest and most-loved places to eat. Enjoy a pre-lunch or early evening vermouth (red Martini over ice) on the outside terrace, overlooking the Moorish Alcazaba and the Roman amphitheater, and watch the world go by on Calle Alcazabilla. An army of waiters provides excellent service, much like the original pimpis – cheerful locals who would help sailors arriving in Málaga’s port to unload their wares before showing them where to head for a drink and a snack. Particularly recommended here are the mini buey (ox) burgers and the homemade croquetas .

6. Pablo Picasso Museum

Museum, Building

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After lunch or drinks at El Pimpi, pop next door to the superbly maintained Picasso Museum to admire the work of Málaga’s most famous son . The museum was opened in 2003 by Christine and Bernard Ruiz-Picasso, Picasso’s daughter-in-law and grandson, and the permanent collection features over 200 works from every stage of Picasso’s eclectic career. Over the next three years (from March 2016), the museum will also be displaying a further 166 Picasso pieces – some of them rarely displayed to the public before.

7. Málaga Port

Over recent years, the oldest continually-operated port in Spain has been transformed into one of the most Málaga’s most aesthetically pleasing and vibrant areas, mainly with the addition of the tropical-feeling ‘Palm Garden of Surprises’ along the promenade. At the far end, near Málaga’s historial bullring, is the Pompidou Centre – Málaga’s answer to the famous Parisian gallery, topped with a giant, multi-coloured cube – and the Paseo del Muelle Uno, a lively thoroughfare lined with bars and restaurants that leads to the Malagueta beach. This is now a great area for an early evening stroll, or from which to watch the enormous cruise liners come and go on their voyages around the Mediterranean.

Cenre Pompidou Málaga, Muelle Uno, Puerto de Málaga, Pasaje Doctor Carrillo Casaux, s/n, Muelle 1, Málaga , +34 951 92 62 00

malaga tourist attractions

Málaga’s stunning port I © Nick Kenrick/Flickr

8. Plaza Merced

One of old Málaga’s central squares is Plaza de la Merced, on which Pablo Picasso was born in 1881: nowadays, it is lined with bars and restaurants with sun-drenched terraces, making it a great place to hang out. The fact that it’s favoured by street performers of all kinds means there’s likely to be live entertainment as you enjoy your tapas, too. Venturing off Plaza Merced itself, the neighbourhood of La Merced itself is a hedonist’s playground: Calle Alamo is lined with super-trendy bars and clubs and gives way to the equally popular Calle Carreteria, on which you’ll find La Tranca , the tapas joint of choice for La Merced’s locals.

Plaza Merced, Málaga, Spain

9. Bar La Tranca

Bar, Spanish, Tapas

10. Mercado de la Merced

Mercado de la Merced, Málaga

11. Vino Mio restaurant

Restaurant, Fusion, Mediterranean

If you want dinner with a difference in Málaga, few places can beat Vino Mio (situated just a few minutes’ walk off Plaza Merced) for friendliness and originality: indeed, it may well be the only restaurant in Andalusia where you can enjoy kangaroo and crocodile while watching a live Flamenco show. This imaginative combination of artistic and culinary pleasures makes dining at Vino Mio a hugely enjoyable experience, and one which is enhanced by the warmth and efficiency of the waiting staff. At the end of the show, the dancer selects diners to come up and try their flamenco skills – an experience which will makes an evening at this quirky restaurant all the more memorable.

12. Botanical Gardens

Botanical Garden, Forest

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If you fancy getting out of the city centre for an afternoon, Málaga’s beautiful botanical gardens are situated in the nearby suburban quarter of ‘La Concepción’, about a 15-minute bus ride from the centre. The gardens, dating from the mid-19th century, display fauna and flora, trees from five continents, over 49 hectares of tropical forest and 23 hectares of botanical gardens. Throughout spring – the best time to visit – the gardens come alive with the colours and scents of all these exotic specimens in bloom, making it perfectly possible to believe you are in some faraway, tropical land rather than on the outskirts of one of Europe’s most popular cities. Particularly notable are the garden’s collection of palm trees, some of which are over one hundred years old, as well as a 400-year-old olive tree.

The best views of Málaga’s attractive 19th-century bullring are from the turrets of the Gibralfaro castle, from where you can see it tucked in amongst high-rise apartment blocks just a stone’s throw from the sea. Work on this understated, elegant plaza began in 1874 and it staged its first bullfight two years later; nowadays, it is one of the the most important bullrings in Andalusia and holds prestigious bullfights during Easter and throughout Málaga’s riotous August fiesta. Tours of the ring are available, and it also houses a museum exploring the history of the controversial spectacle that takes place within.

Plaza de Toros de M á laga, 8 Paseo Reding, Málaga, Spain , +34 952 06 98 23

Málaga’s bullring I

This scruffy and charming barrio is situated between the Guadalmedina river to the east and the Maria Zambrano train station to the west and is one of Málaga’s oldest neighbourhoods. It’s hard to believe that Perchel is in the same city as the smart, sophisticated old town, but for that reason it gives you a true taste of what life was like before Málaga became a major tourist destination. It was – and still is – a working-class neighbourhood, many locals earned their living from the ocean on their doorstep. Nowadays it’s still the place to head for the freshest fish in the city, sold from stalls at the wonderful Mercado del Carmen.

13. Mercado del Carmen

14. mercado atarazanas.

Market, Spanish, Vegetarian

Atarazanas is Malagas most famous market

15. Bar Los Gatos

Restaurant, Bar, Spanish, Mediterranean, European

Los Gatos is one of the friendliest bars in Málaga, a place where visitors stepping in for the first time are greeted like loyal clients of 20 years. The décor is traditional, with an enormous stuffed bull and bullfighting paraphernalia occupying one corner, and various trinkets and antique items randomly scattered throughout the restaurant. Los Gatos pulls off the not-inconsiderable feat of appealing to both locals and visitors, the latter of whom are warmly welcomed in both English and Spanish. Its location just off Calle Granada – the historical quarter’s central street – means it’s a perfect place to enjoy a cold beer and tapas whilst monument-hopping.

Soho street art

You won’t see many tourists on the streets of Soho, a now-neglected quarter of Málaga that fifty or so years ago was a desirable residential area. Bordered by Alameda Principal to the north, the Guadalmedina river to the west and the port to the east, this now-unloved neighbourhood is nevertheless home to the most exciting and innovative street art scenes in Andalusia . As part of the initiative known as Málaga Arte Urbano Soho ( MAUS ), some of the world’s leading grafitti artists have adorned Soho’s crumbing facades with amazing spray-paint images; hunting for these is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon off the tourist circuit. And best of all, it’s completely free.

Street art in Málaga’s Soho district I

16. La Malagueta beach

One of the best things about being in Málaga, especially on a sweltering summer’s day, is the city’s proximity to a cluster of superb beaches . The Playa Malagueta is the closest and most popular of them all and is reached by just a 10-minute walk along the lovely promenade at the east end of Málaga’s great port. Its 0.6 mile-long, man-made stretch of fine sand provides the perfect setting for a refreshing dip and a dose of Andalusian sun, before lunch or drinks in one of the many excellent restaurants and bars on the nearby Paseo del Muelle Dos.

Malagueta beach, Málaga, Spain

Every August, usually around the middle of the month, Málaga’s annual feria erupts into life. A distinctive aspect of Málaga’s week-long blowout is that the celebrations don’t just take place in marquees (called “ casetas” ) on a sandy site the size of several football pitches known as a “ recinto” , which are usually located quite a way out of the city center. Of course, Málaga has a caseta -packed recinto to rival any other major Andalusian city: but here, during the day, the fiesta is on the streets. Spontaneous street parties break out all over town, with women wearing the stunning flamenco dresses and big groups of Malagueños sharing bottles of cartojal , a sweet white wine that is the feria’s signature drink. Particularly lively are Calle Marques de Larios and Plaza de la Constitución in the old town, which are packed with locals dancing, drinking and socialising all day, every day, for a week. Quite simply wonderful.

Street parties during Málaga’s August feria I

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The Spain Travel Guru

15 Top Things to Do in Málaga Spain (+Travel Tips!)

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: June 9, 2023

15 Top Things to Do in Málaga Spain (+Travel Tips!)

If you’re wondering what the best things to do in Málaga Spain are, this article will break down the best things to see, do, eat, and the best places to relax on your trip to Málaga.

Málaga is located in the south of Spain in the autonomous community of Andalucia and is the capital city of the province of Malaga.

Málaga is at the center of the Costa del Sol, the coast of the sun. So you can imagine what makes this place so special.

It’s a haven for people from all over the world who want to enjoy amazing beaches and almost year-round sunshine.

While you’re in Málaga, you may want to consider a visit to the stunning beaches in Cabo de Gata or head west to the luxurious Marbella.

I’ll also mention some of my favorite trips that are easy to do from Málaga in one day.

How to Get to Málaga

Málaga is one of the easiest places to reach in southern Spain.

The best way to easily reach Málaga is to fly into Málaga Airport or Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport, airport code: AGP.

You can fly directly here from just about any airport around Europe including London, Manchester, Paris, Dublin, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Munich, and Madrid.

There are no direct flights from the US at the time of writing, but you can very easily connect through any of the above airports.

If you are traveling from within Spain, the Spanish rail network, Renfe, can connect you to all over the country. You can take a high-speed AVE train from Madrid to Málaga and be there in two and a half hours.

To pre-book Spanish trains, I book directly with Renfe , the national train network.

If you aren’t fussy about specific times or you are traveling during non-peak times, then you can go to the train station and book your ticket for the same day.

Málaga Cathedral.

Getting Around Málaga Spain

Málaga is a pretty small city and very easy to navigate on foot.

If you stay at a hotel or apartment in the city center, you will be able to walk pretty much everywhere.

If you want to get to some of the beaches in other parts of the city, the bus network is very easy to use.

I simply put the location of where I want to go into Google Maps and then choose the public transportation option.

This will tell you exactly where the bus stop is, what time the bus is due to arrive, which stop to get off at, and then where to walk to get exactly where you want to be from the bus stop.

Using Google Maps in Málaga to navigate to the best beach.

A single journey on the bus in Málaga costs €1.40 and you can pay the driver on the bus, but it must be in cash and it should be paid with small notes or coins whenever possible. If you decide to hire a car in Malaga , you will have a little bit more flexibility and freedom to enjoy some day trips from Malaga as well.

Where to Stay in Málaga

There are so many amazing hotels and apartments to stay in while visiting Málaga. I personally recommend staying in the downtown area of the city unless you are only coming so that you can go to the beach. Most of the best things to do in Málaga are located in the old town of the city and it is also packed with plenty of great tapas bars and restaurants, so you won’t have to travel very far to enjoy the best of Málaga. If you want to stay in a hotel in Málaga, these are the best at every price point:

  • Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel is the best option for those traveling on a budget but that still want to have a nice, clean, and comfortable place to stay. You can get a single bed in a dormitory for about $25 (depending on the number of beds per room) or get your own double room with a friend or partner for $65 per night. Book a stay at Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel here .
  • Dulces Dreams Boutique Hotel is a great mid-range option for where to stay in Málaga. Rooms start at $65 a night and the hotel itself is absolutely gorgeous and very nicely decorated. It’s located right in the center of the city making it easy to walk everywhere. Book a stay at the Dulces Dream Boutique Hotel here .
  • Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina is a great splurge if you want to stay in some luxury while you are visiting Málaga. It is located in the Soho neighborhood, which is still relatively central and about a 15-minute walk to the museums and sites around the city center. Rooms start at $259 per night. Book a stay at Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina here .

If you would prefer an apartment, I love using Plum Guide and Booking.com to find the best there is in any given city. These are my top picks for the best places apartments in Málaga.

  • By the Citrus Tree is a stunning two-bedroom, two-bath duplex that’s only a 5-minute walk to the center of Málaga. It has a perfect rooftop with dining table so you can self-cater and then enjoy dinner overlooking the city. Depending on the time of year, you can snag this place for as little as $200 per night. Book a stay at By the Citrus Tree here .
  • Chinitas Urban Estudios is a great option for a single traveler or a couple who are staying for a short period of time. The apartments are all studios but have fully-stocked kitchens so that you can self-cater. They are all located right in the center of Málaga city center and are a 5-minute walk to the central beach. Apartments start at a very reasonable $120 per night. Book a stay at Chinitas Urban Estudios here .

Málaga Sunset.

What to Do in Málaga Spain

There are so many awesome things to do in Málaga. Whether you love history, culture, food, or great beaches, you can awesome places to visit in Málaga to suit your style. I’ve spent two separate trips exploring this awesome city and I can’t wait to return again for a third time. It’s a great base for exploring the Costa del Sol if it’s your first time in the region and if you’ve visited before, it’s a great airport for accessing the rest of the region like Almería, Granada, Seville, and even small towns like Ronda .

1. Visit the Alcazaba

The number one Málaga attraction I was looking forward to exploring was the Alcazaba. Andalucia is full of history from the times of the Moors and the Alcazaba is one of the best examples of their architecture that was left behind.

Built originally in the 11th century, Alcazaba comes from the Arabic word for citadel. Built on a hill and using some of the surrounding Roman ruins (look for the marble pillars as you walk up to the top!), this is one of the most extraordinary tourist attractions in Málaga.

Be sure to bring your phone with you so that you can scan the QR code at the entrance and listen to the audio guide as you explore. The audioguide corresponds to numbers that have been left all over the citadel and you can listen to stories and learn about each part and what role it played in history.

It really adds a lot to your visit and doesn’t cost anything extra. Tickets to the Alcazaba are €3.50 per person, however, if you plan to also visit the Gibralfaro castle nearby, you would be better off purchasing the €5.50 combo ticket.

The ticket is valid for 48 hours, so you don’t have to visit both on the same day. If you visit on Sunday after 2 pm, entrance is free. This means of course, that it will also be very busy at this time.

However, it is a nice way to save some money if traveling on a budget. Tickets cannot be pre-purchased. You can simply buy them on the day you visit from the machine. Save the location of the Alcazaba on Google Maps .

Alcazaba courtyard.

2. See the Roman Theater

Just below the Alcazaba and an easy Málaga attraction to visit while you are nearby is the Roman Theater. You can see the entire theater from the plaza that sits in front of it and you don’t need to enter unless you want to walk amongst the amphitheater stairs and take a seat.

However, entry is free, so if you have time it is well worth walking through. The theater was built in the first century AD and it remained a theater until the third century. When Málaga became part of Al-Andalus and was ruled by the Moors, the theater became a stone quarry.

Málaga’s Roman theater wasn’t actually discovered until 1951 and it wasn’t completely uncovered until 1995! It’s also said that Antonio Banderas, who grew up in Málaga, performed in shows at this theater when he was a child.

The even more fascinating thing about this is that the shows would have been banned under Franco’s rule at the time, so he was performing in secret!

Save the location of the Roman Theater on Google Maps .

Roman pillars were used to create part of the arch on the walkway in the Alcazaba.

3. Climb to the top of the Cathedral

The Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga or the Cathedral of the Incarnation of Málaga is located in the Centro neighborhood in the center of the city.

Climbing to the top of the cathedral is one of the top activities in Málaga and well worth it not only for the views, but to learn more about the history of the city. Just like with the Alcazaba, the cathedral has a free audioguide that you can listen to as you explore the different parts of the church.

Through the narrow streets of the center of Málaga, you will find the entrance to the cathedral which was built between 1528 and 1782 on the site of a former Moorish Mosque.

It is a combination of Baroque and Renaissance styles with the facade being almost completely Baroque and the interior following the original plans to remain in the Renaissance style.

General admission to visit only the inside of the cathedral costs €8 per person. General admission just to climb to the roof of the cathedral also costs €8. If you want to do both, then you can purchase a combined ticket which costs €12. You can pre-purchase your tickets here (the website is in Spanish).

Save the location of the cathedral on Google Maps .

4. Take in the views at the Gibralfaro

Another of the top Málaga attractions not to miss is the Gibralfaro. If you previously visited the Alcazaba, hopefully, you got the combo ticket. If this is the first stop on your tour of Málaga (great choice, the views are the best!) , then you can purchase the combo ticket here as well.

Just like with the Alcazaba, the individual ticket costs €3.50, but if you purchase the combo with the Alcazaba, it only costs €5.50. As a word of warning, if you are visiting Málaga without a car, you will have quite a walk to the top.

From the base you have a lot of stairs to contend with, so I highly recommend visiting as early as possible before it gets too hot. You will also want to wear sturdy walking shoes.

The path up to the top is quite steep in some places and is made of stone that can sometimes get slippery. There are water fountains at the top (and at the bottom), so be sure to pack your reusable water bottle. The Gibralfaro is what remains of a 10th-century Moorish castle fortress that sits at the highest point in the downtown area.

You can actually just walk to the top near the entrance to enjoy the views if you aren’t interested in the history of the castle. There is also a wonderful audioguide available if you bring your phone with you to the castle.

Add the location to your Google Maps .

Views from the Gibralfaro.

5. Picasso Museum

The Picasso Museum might just be the most popular tourist attraction in Málaga. On October 25, 1881, Pablo Ruiz was born in the city of Málaga.

He would later take his mother’s last name, Picasso. Málaga is very proud to be the birthplace of one of the world’s most influential artists and you can visit the museum for €9 per person every day of the week.

The museum has a large collection of Picasso’s work (perhaps not as many as they have in Cologne !) and it is displayed in a way that is both chronological and thematic so that you really see the changes in Picasso’s work across his lifetime.

Málaga obviously really loves an audioguide, because you get one here too. You can choose which language you’d like to listen to and you can explore the museum at your own pace while learning about the life of a controversial but no doubt talented man.

If you are visiting during the peak summer season, it is recommended that you pre-book your tickets online so that you can skip the line. You can purchase your tickets here . Save the location of the Picasso Museum on Google Maps .

Malaga city streets.

6. Málaga Museum

The Museo de Málaga or Málaga Museum is housed in the Palacio de Aduana, or the Customs Palace. The Palacio de Aduana was the original customs house for the Málaga port and was built in 1791 (although it wasn’t completed until 1829).

Opened in 2016 as a museum, the Málaga Museum is both an archeological and fine arts museum. The museum is of particular interest to history lovers as it retraces the story of the city, which is packed with a history dating back to Roman times.

With over 17,000 artifacts and pieces, this is the largest museum in Andalucia and the fifth largest in all of Spain. The best part is that it is only €1.50 and if you are an EU citizen it’s completely free. Save the location of the museum on Google Maps .

7. Palmeral de Las Sorpresas

A very fancy name for the city’s main portside promenade. The Palmeral de Las Sorpresas means the palm grove of surprises.

Above all else, it’s a wonderful place to head for a walk around sunset. There are indeed plenty of palm trees that line the boardwalk (nearly 400 of them in fact!). There are bars and small restaurants that lead all the way out to a lighthouse with the port opposite.

It’s a popular spot for families thanks to a nice playground and it’s also a fantastic place to go for a run. Save the location of the Palm Grove of Surprises here.

Málaga harbor after dark.

8. Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga

The Carmen Thyssen Museum is a great option if you enjoy art and have visited the other wonderful art museums around Málaga.

The museum is made up mostly of the private collection of the museum’s namesake, Carmen Cervera, the fifth wife of Baron Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza (also famous for his private art collection ).

The main focus of the collection is 19th-century Spanish painters with a large collection of Andalucian artists. Entry to the museum is €10 per person. Tickets can be purchased online here .

Save the location of the Carmen Thyssen Museum here.

9. Mercado Central de Atarazanas

The central market of Málaga is a wonderful place to head if you are self-catering while you’re here. They have everything from locally grown fruit to freshly caught fish.

Andalucia is one of the largest producers of fruit in the entire EU, so don’t miss out on some fantastically fresh produce.

In addition to being a great place to do some grocery shopping, Mercado Central de Atarazanas is known as one of the best places in Málaga to go for a seafood lunch.

There are a few options for food in the market, but I personally love Bar Mercado Atarazanas which is right by the main entrance on the corner of C. Atarazanas and Pl. Arriola. The beer is cold, the staff are friendly, and the seafood is excellent (especially the pinchos!).

Save the location of the market on Google Maps .

Málaga city street scenes. Walking around the city at this time of day is one of the best things to do in Málaga if you like photography and people watching!

10. Eat at a Local Chiringuito

Chiringuitos are a staple of Málaga beach life. Some are little stands right on the beach with plastic tables and chairs in the sand. Others are full-on restaurants with seating both inside and outside that also happen to have a little shack to make it feel more legit.

All are serving up seriously good seafood. The most popular dish to try that is local to Málaga is the espetos. Espetos are locally caught sardines that are skewered on what looks like a sword and then cooked over an open fire pit until perfectly grilled.

Crispy and salty on the outside, meaty and delicious on the inside. Add a squeeze of lemon and enjoy it with some bread. Most chiringuitos have tons of grilled seafood options that they’ll cook over the same open fire (it usually looks like it’s an old boat full of sand). A few fantastic chiringuitos to check out while you’re in Málaga include:

  • Chiringuito Mediterraneo
  • Chiringuito Picasso
  • Chiringuito Tropicana

Espetos are simple, but delicious and usually only cost about €3.

12. Explore the Soho Neighborhood

Soho has recently become the new cool neighborhood in town. If you’re looking for craft beer, craft cocktails, boutique hotels, and new-wave coffee shops, this is the neighborhood where you’ll find them all.

That being said, the neighborhood is really all about supporting local businesses. This is where you will find the locally owned bars, the small artist-owned galleries, and other artisan shops that support local creatives.

The neighborhood revitalization started with locals. You will notice on your walk around the neighborhood the huge murals that cover many of the buildings here. Projects to support the neighborhood are now also being funded by the local government. This is the location of Soho on Google Maps .

One of the many beautiful beaches in Malaga.

13. Check out the Beaches

The beaches in Malaga are some of the best in Spain in my humble opinion. There are several really great beaches within a short walk or bus journey from the center of Málaga. Playa La Malagueta is the downtown beach.

This makes it the busiest. But it is also easy to get to and very long, so there’s plenty of space to grab some sand for your towel and the water is lovely for swimming. La Malagueta also has volleyball courts, a small outdoor gym, and a playground for kids.

If you want to get further afield to somewhere a little bit quieter, my personal favorite Málaga beach is Playa Pedregalejo . It’s much smaller and can fill up quickly on weekends, but if you are visiting during the week you can have it almost to yourself. Other beaches worth visiting that are easy to reach are Playas del Palo and Playa de los Álamos.

14. Take a Boat Trip around the Bay (at sunset!)

When someone recommended taking a boat trip around Málaga to me on my first trip my initial reaction was, “Do you think I’m made of money?”

But actually, a boat tour around Málaga is a very affordable thing to do. For as little as €12 you can head out on a catamaran around the bay. For a few more euros you can add snorkeling to the itinerary. They offer them at midday and at sunset. Fly Blue is the main provider of these trips around the bay.

You can read more about them on their website here .

The bridge that you walk over in the Caminito del Rey.

15. Hike the Caminito del Rey

While this isn’t exactly one of the top things to do  in Málaga, it is one of the best things to do while you are visiting Málaga.

If you rent a car, it’s very easy to visit on your own. However, if you don’t have a car, you’ll need to visit the canyon with a tour. I highly recommend this tour which costs $60 per person .

It picks you up and drops you back off in Málaga and includes your entry ticket, a bilingual guide, and all transportation. You can book that tour here . The Caminito del Rey was once known as one of the most dangerous hikes in the world.

After several deaths in the park, the government shut it down and put into place a plan to revamp the trail and make it safe for all visitors. Now you have to pre-book your tickets online and only a certain number of visitors are allowed per day.

You have to wear a hard hat and the trail itself is completely new and although it feels gravity-defying in some places, is incredibly safe to walk. As you hike along the trail, you can actually see some of the old trails and I shivered to think that people would ever consider walking along such a dangerous path.

If you aren’t  too afraid of heights, this is actually a very flat and relatively easy walk to do. You don’t need to be particularly fit to hike it.

You can watch the full video of my experience here on YouTube .

Watch the Best Things to Do in Málaga Video

Top Attractions & Things to do in Malaga

Looking for activities and things to do in Malaga? There are many tourist attractions in Malaga you can visit. Continue reading and click on any of them to know more, we have a complete tourist guide for planning your visit:

malaga tourist attractions

A stronghold of the Muslim era dating back to the 11th century, La Alcazaba is built on the remains of an old fort of Phoenician-Punic origin that served as protection for the commercial port.

It is located high on the hill of Mount Gibralfaro and so offers panoramic views of Malaga and the old city.

La Alcazaba of Malaga is one of the best preserved Moorish buildings, and witnessed the passage of Moorish civilization in Andalucia. It has over 100 towers, including La Torre de la Vela near La Plaza de Armas where you can see almost the entire city.

All you need to know about Malaga Alcazaba

malaga tourist attractions

Gibralfaro Castle

Gibralfaro Castle is named after a beacon of Phoenician origin built on the mountainside by Abderrahman III. Later, the current fortress was built on its ruins in the XIV century.

The Castle and Alcazaba of Malaga are connected through a passage joined by two towers. Nowadays the towers can be visited, and from them you get a fantastic panoramic view of the city centre and on clear days you can even can see the coast of Rif (North Africa) and the Strait of Gibraltar.

Read more about Gibralfaro Castle

malaga tourist attractions

  • Roman Theatre

The Roman Theatre is a 1st century BC building built by Emperor Caesar Augustus in the Roman city of Malacca.

The Roman Theatre remained hidden for centuries until it was discovered in 1953 when they began the construction of the new palace gardens and library files.

It is located in the heart of the historic centre of the city of Malaga, next to the Cathedral and near the Castle of Gibralfaro and Alcazaba.

Read more about Roman Theatre in Malaga

malaga tourist attractions

Picasso’s Birthplace Museum (Fundacion Picasso)

Malaga was the birthplace of the famous painter Pablo Picasso in 1881. The building that was once his home in the Plaza de La Merced is now a historic and artistic heritage monument and headquarters for the Picasso Foundation.

Read more about Picasso Museum in Malaga

malaga tourist attractions

Tivoli World

Only 15 km away from the capital, located in the town of Benalmadena, if you’re looking for something to do that’s fun for both children and adults do not miss the Tivoli World Amusement Park, the oldest theme park on La Costa del Sol.

At Tivoli World you can enjoy the many attractions – particularly if you want to release some adrenaline at the scary ‘Pasaje de Terror’.

After having some fun on the rides and attractions, you can relax by strolling through the gardens or by trying the different cuisines of the restaurants inside the park.

All you need to know about Tivoli World in Benalmadena .

malaga tourist attractions

  • The Cathedral

Malaga’s cathedral was built on top of a former Great Mosque, after the recapture of the town in 1528. The cathedral combines different styles – from its Gothic foundation, and Renaissance facade to its Baroque towers – because the construction lasted several centuries due to lack of funding.

Read more about Malaga Cathedral .

malaga tourist attractions

  • Sagrario Church

The Sagrario church is located next to the cathedral, and likewise it was built in the late 15th century on the ruins of the Great Mosque. The church is situated in the historic centre on Santa Maria street and features an Elizabethan Gothic-style gate and an impressive altar.

Read more about Sagrario Church in Malaga .

malaga tourist attractions

  • Santiago Church

Dating back to 1490, the Iglesia de Santiago is the oldest church in Malaga. The church, which is located on Calle Granada, combines both Moorish and Gothic styles and has a beautiful Mudejar tower. Picasso was baptized in this church in 1881.

More information about Santiago Church

malaga tourist attractions

  • Palace Marques de Valdeflores

The Palace Marques de Valdeflores is an 18th century residential building situated in calle Carreterría. This building gives us an impression of the life of the aristocracy of the late 18th century in Malaga. The three-floor building has a central courtyard surrounded by a gallery where the walls are decorated with Moorish mosaics. Inside the palace are an outstanding the main staircase and its balustrade, both in marble.

Tourist guide about Marques de Valdeflores Palace

malaga tourist attractions

Bishop’s Palace (Palacio Episcopal)

The Episcopal Palace, situated close to the Cathedral of Malaga, is a complex of buildings of different styles which dates back to 1762. The main building has a high quality front entrance built with marbles of different colors; inside is the outstanding private garden of the bishop decorated with tiles from the 18th century.

Along with the Cathedral and the Plaza del Obispo, it is one of the most beautiful of Malaga’s attractions.

Guide of Bishop’s Palace (Palacio Episcopal)

malaga tourist attractions

Malaga Museum

The Customs Palace was built in 1788 to manage the traffic of the port. This neoclassical building in the style of the Italian palaces of the 17th century is located near Malaga Park in the historic city centre.

Information about Malaga Museum .

malaga tourist attractions

The Town Hall (Ayuntamiento)

The town hall of Malaga is a beautiful neo-Baroque style building with Art Nouveau details of the early 20th century. Situated on the park promenade, between the port and the old town, it’s surrounded by gardens and other landmark buildings and is home to the Malaga city council.

Read more about the Town Hall in Malaga

malaga tourist attractions

The House of the Consulate (Casa del Consulado)

The Casa del Consulado is an 18th century building located in the Plaza de la Constitución in the Old Town. This building (declared an historic monument) is situated very close to Villalon Palace which is the home of the Thyssen Museum in Malaga.

Read more about House of the Consulate

malaga tourist attractions

Malaga Bullring

The Malaga Bullring is located in La Malagueta, near the Malaga Park, the Old Town and in the shadow of the Gibralfaro Castle. This Mudejar-style bullring dates from 1876 and has capacity for an audience of 14,000 people. Bullfights are held in August with the best bullfighters. These dates are the same as the popular Malaga Fair, which creates great excitement among fans of bullfighting.

As you can see there are many attractions and things to do in Malaga – but there are also many more we did not write about here.

All you need to know about Malaga bullring

malaga tourist attractions

  • Main Buildings
  • La Alcazaba
  • Gibralfraro
  • Bishop palace
  • Customs Palace
  • The Town Hall
  • The House of the Consulate
  • Malaga Bullfighting Ring

Tourist Attractions

  • Malaga Beaches
  • Fairs & Festivals
  • Malaga Museums
  • Nightlife in Malaga
  • Natural Environments

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23 Fun things to do in Malaga, Spain on a city break

November 27, 2022 | Posted in: Spain

If you’re looking for reliable sunshine, golden beaches, and food that will have you planning your next meal before you’ve even finished chewing, Malaga is the place to be.

There are plenty of things to do in Malaga and while this is a seaside city on the Costa del Sol, it has a lot more to offer than just sunbathing.

things to do in malaga

Whichever kind of traveler you are, the following is a list of things you can use to fill your days when you visit Malaga.

1. Visit the cathedral

2. go back in time at the roman theater, 3. wander around the alcazaba and the castillo de gibralfaro, 4. grab a bite at the mercado atarazanas, 5. go on a food tour, 6. check out the street art in soho, 7. eat all the tapas, 8. walk along the pier one port, 9. spend an afternoon at playa de la malagueta, 10. stroll along the paseo de españa, 11. try sweet malaga wine, 12. take a taxi to the botanical garden, 13. wander around the old fishing district of el palo, 14. get your art on at a museum, 15. visit the automobile and fashion museum, 16. go shopping, 17. enjoy a leisurely brunch, 18. enjoy the sunset at one of malaga's many rooftop bars, 19. attend a flamenco show, 20. go hiking at the montes de malaga natural park, 21. hike the caminito del rey gorge, 22. take a boat trip, 23. explore the surrounding towns, tours in malaga, malaga tourist map, plan your trip to malaga, don't forget travel insurance, 23 fun things to do in malaga.

malaga holidays

The Cathedral fuses a mixture of renaissance and baroque styles. The facade is flanked by palm trees, creating an interesting juxtaposition between man-made wonders and natural beauty. You don’t need to go inside the cathedral to be wowed by it, but if you do, you’re in for a real treat. Entrance is just 2 EUR.

Tucked away in one corner is the easily missed cathedral museum, which will clue you up on the history of the cathedral. But, the real pièce de résistance is the view from the top. You can climb up one of the towers and get an incredible panoramic view of the city.

If you do this at the beginning of your trip, you can try and map out the city from up there to get your bearings for when you’re back on the ground.

You should note that it is around 200 steps to the top of the tower, so if you have any mobility problems, this might not be for you. As an alternative, the Cathedral gardens are free to visit and are colorful and beautiful.

malaga old town

The Theater was built in the first century BC under the supervision of Emperor Augustus. They got good use out of it for about 400 years until it was abandoned and started to decline into ruins. In the 700s, the Moors moved in and began using it as a quarry to assist in the building of the Alcazaba.

It wasn’t until 1951 that the Theater was rediscovered. It was then excavated and restored and in 2011 it was reopened to the public.

If you time your visit well and go during the summer months, you can watch an open-air performance in this ancient theater. That is a truly magical experience, which will transport you back in time and leave you feeling immersed in the historical and cultural significance of the place.

Best of all, the Roman Theater is free to look around, making it one of the places to see in Malaga for those traveling on a budget.  

what to do in malaga

The main purpose of the Alcazaba was defense from possible invasions from other cities and tribes. It dates back to the Muslim period and is believed to have been constructed in the early 1000s.

It is an iconic example of Moorish architecture and is filled with secret courtyards and gorgeous gardens that exude tranquility.

malaga attractions

To make the most of your experience as you wander through the structures, you may want to consider getting a tour guide to help you out. This will help you make sense of what you’re seeing. Otherwise, you can stroll through solo and take it all in at face value.

Make sure you take a minute to go to the edge of the fortress and soak up the wonderful views of the city.

There are few places in the world where you can experience so many time periods in one go. The fortress dates from the 11th century; and just below is the Roman Theater, which goes back to the 1st century BC; and in the distance is modern Malaga. In just one glance, you can see how far this city has come and yet how much antiquity still remains here.  

malaga what to do

Every big city in Spain has a huge market right in its center that acts as the city’s beating heart. It is not just a place to buy food, it is a social hub, tourist destination, and historical monument all rolled into one.

Malaga is no different. One of the best things to do in Malaga is to check out its central market. The Mercado Atarazanas pulses with energy and is brimming with people shopping for fresh produce that will make you drool on sight.

malaga spain things to do

The prices are slightly higher than your average supermarket, but the quality is higher and the shopping experience is better. Even if you don’t buy anything, the market is still fun to explore and one of the better-known things to see in Malaga. However, I defy anyone to walk through it without purchasing a single thing!

If you are lucky enough to have a kitchen in your accommodation, I recommend stocking up on fresh fish, meat, and veggies here. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re able to whip up something more interesting than pasta (again). If you don’t have a kitchen then you’ll just have to eat something at the market!

There are loads of stall selling mouth-watering tapas, charcuterie, cheese and other snacks that you can either grab and go or sit and enjoy. Wash it all down with a glass of Cruzcampo, the local beer, and you’ve got the perfect midday snack.  

what to see in Malaga spain

I've looked up which ones come recommended and found quite a few that have something different to offer.

This evening tapas and wine tour takes you to various bars when Malaga's nightlife awakens.

This guided bike tour combines sightseeing with history and tapas tastings.

If you prefer combining the cultural with the culinary on foot, check out this tapas and walking tour .  

malaga tourist attractions

Historically, this part of the city has been one in which you wouldn’t necessarily want to find yourself. It was run-down, degraded and generally unpleasant. However, recent years have seen a spectacular rejuvenation of SoHo and this once battered and bruised area has had new life breathed into it, making it one of Malaga’s trendiest, up and coming neighborhoods.

malaga sightseeing

Wander through the streets and keep your eyes cast upwards to spot some of the neighborhood’s finest street art. After an hour or two of meandering head to one of the area’s numerous cafés or bars and quench your thirst with a Cruzcampo or coffee.

Even if you’re not into street art, SoHo is a cool place to check out. The citizen-led rehabilitation of the neighborhood has resulted in a notable camaraderie and sense of community that you won’t necessarily find in other parts of the city.  

malaga activities

For those unfamiliar with tapas, it is the art of sharing several small dishes of food among friends. The premise is that you order lots of small plates for the table and everyone helps themselves to everything. You should also note that the Spanish eat dinner really late. It is not uncommon for people to start eating as late as 10 p.m.

Typical tapas platters include patatas bravas (fried potatoes with tomato sauce and aioli); fried fish, cheese with honey, chorizo in wine – just to name a few! Every region in Spain has its own delicacies so take your time perusing the menu before ordering. The best thing about tapas is that it is really cheap so it is easy to fill up without breaking the bank.

Tapas is ubiquitous in Spain so you won’t need to walk far to find a place offering an array of delicious dishes. Once you’ve sat down, be prepared to spend hours sitting and chatting while small plates arrive one by one. It is the ultimate way to socialize and experience Spanish culture like a local.  

malaga places to visit

Among the attractions that have popped up here are a leisure center and shopping mall. If you’re looking to kit out your wardrobe while you’re in Malaga, this is a great place to do it and you’ll have a sweet view of the water and cruise ships while you’re at it.

The Pier is not exactly what you would call historic Malaga and it might be considered a little sterile for those looking for something more authentic. However, it is nice and busy and has a good energy about it.  

malaga beach

When the sun is shining, the people of Malaga take to the beach and soak up the endless sunshine. Grab a drink and your favorite book and take to the sand for a day of unmitigated chilling. The beach is just a 10-minute walk from the city center so it’s easy to access wherever you are in the city.

Once you’re at the beach, when hunger strikes, there are plenty of restaurants around where you can re-energize. Honestly, there are few things better than spending three hours lying in the blissful sunshine and then stuffing yourself with gourmet tapas and Cruzcampo. That is truly living the high life. Then, once you’re full of food, head back to the beach and lie in the sun while you digest like a snake.

There are other beaches in Malaga, so if you want a change of scenery from Playa de la Malagueta check out nearby Playa Caleta, another favorite with locals and visitors alike. Want to make the trip a little more adventurous? Hire a bike in Malaga city center and use the coastal cycle path to make your way to Malagueta.  

malaga sights

The Paseo consists of a long straight stretch, lined with palm trees and other exotic plants and flowers. It is delightfully green and is great for the ‘gram if nothing else. If you head over there on a Sunday you will see buskers and entertainers jamming out at the edge of the path. Sometimes, the perfect Sunday is spent sitting in the warm glow of the morning sun, listening to local talent rock out.

Even if you visit Malaga in its cooler months, the Paseo still buzzes with activity. Locals love this place and you’ll always find people slowly meandering along it. Like I said before, people don’t rush here so if your pace is quicker than a leisurely amble then you’ll look out of place.  

malaga what to see

There is a hierarchy within the Malaga wine world as well, which will tell you how long that particular bottle has been aged for. The youngest wines, which have only been aged for 6 months to 2 years are just known as Malaga wine. Next is Malaga Noble, which is 2-3 years; Malaga Anejo, for 3-5 years; and Malaga Transanejo for 5+ years.

Maybe try one of each for the full Malaga wine experience? It gives you an excuse to drink lots of wine at the very least.

Malaga wine is hard to find outside of the Malaga region so you should take advantage of being there to drink as much as you can. It pairs perfectly with virtually any dessert or sweet thing. Or you can have it instead of a dessert if you don’t have much of a sweet tooth. You’ll find bars serving this stuff all over the city so you’ll never need to go far to find your next glass.  

malaga things to see

Fast forward over 150 years and their treasured garden is now open to the public. It is an enormous patch of land – 49 hectares altogether and 23 hectares that are open to the public – so make sure you grab a map when you enter – that way you can stake out some of the highlights. The black bamboo forest is one of these highlights and it is the largest of its kind in the world.

Make sure you head up to the mirador (lookout point) as well for stunning vistas over the city of Malaga, the Cathedral, and the sea. There are also some pretty impressive palm trees within the gardens that you’ll want to seek out.

The gardens are about 5km outside the city center so the best way to get there is by taxi. Due to the size of the gardens and the fact that you need to leave the city to visit them, you should allocate a decent amount of time to this activity. I recommend anything up to about five hours.  

El Palo is a coastal neighborhood and wandering around here will give you a taste of the old fishing traditions of the city. It is definitely one of the more authentic things to do in Malaga. Although the city has been rejuvenated and modernized, it is still very much in touch with its humble beginnings and you can feel that just by walking around. The blend of old and new in El Palo is enchanting.

Along the boardwalk, you’ll find one of El Palo’s must-haves: grilled sardines, known as ‘espetos’ in Spanish. The sardines are served on skewers and for just 2 EUR a pop, it’s hard not to go back for seconds.

If that’s not enough to quell your appetite, there are plenty of restaurants around selling everything from sandwiches to seafood. There’s even a place that does Hawaiin poke if you’re after something a bit more international.

If you get tired of walking around, El Palo has a lovely beach stretching along its edge. Chill out here for a bit before you carry on exploring. You can even take a dip in the warm water that characterizes this patch of coastline.

The neighborhood of El Palo sits to the East of Malaga’s city center and is easily accessible by bus. You don’t need to spend an entire day (although you easily could) to get a feel for the place, but I would still allocate at least half a day to it so you don’t feel rushed.  

malaga museum

As you walk through the collections, you will travel through time alongside Pablo Picasso. Works from each of his creative periods are displayed on the walls so you can watch how his style evolved over time. By the time you’ve finished, you’ll be an expert on all things Picasso.

Don't feel like standing in line? With this skip-the-line ticket , you won't have to.

malaga highlights

Once you’ve had your fill of Picasso, the Centre Pompidou is another fabulous gallery to explore. There are exhibitions on display here from a huge number of artists, comprising a range of themes, including Modern Utopias, the Golden Age, and the Radiant City. They also have a busy schedule of temporary exhibitions, which are always exciting and often interactive.

Just like for the Picasso Museum, you can get a skip-the-line ticket for the Centre Pompidou to beat the crowds.

If they aren’t enough for you, you can also visit the Center of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Fine Arts, or the Carmen Thyssen Museum to name just a few of the city’s numerous art museums. Malaga certainly has no shortage of wonderful art to admire – you could even fill your entire vacation just with gallery-hopping!

If you want to combine art with history, check out the Malaga Museum which has rooms full of fine art and archaeological pieces. The building istsef is also spectacular, the Palacio de la Aduana de Malaga.  

If you're keen for more museums, and want something a little more technical after all that art, check out the Automobile and Fashion Museum. There are more than 100 classic cars on display here, all categorized by when they were built.

Not interested in cars? Check out the galleries of the museum dedicated to fashion. You'll find rooms full of vintage collections of clothes from designers such as Chanel, Prada, Balmain and Dior. You'll also learn about different women thoroughout history who wore these clothes.  

malaga spain tourist attractions

Running parallel to Calle Larios is Calle Nueva, which is packed with yet more stores, including some one-off boutiques. These streets are located in the beautiful Old Town, also referred to as the Historic Center and are pedestrianized so you can shop ‘til you drop without the need to look before you cross the road.

If malls are more your thing, there are several shopping malls dotted around the city that you visit. Corte Ingles is one of the best-known department stores in Spain and Malaga has a huge one about 10 minutes’ walk from Calle Larios. Centro Larios is also a good shout and is one of the most popular malls with the locals.

stuff to do in malaga

If you’re looking for something unique, there is an artisans market in SoHo on the first Saturday of every month. There’s also a market in the Plaza de la Merced on the fourth Sunday of every month. You can usually find cute knick-knacks around these markets and the vibe is great fun.

If you’ve got a bigger budget than usual or you really want to treat yourself, you’ll find the top luxury brands in the town of Marbella. Check out Puerto Banus and Avenida Ricardo Soriano.  

brunch malaga

There are some exceptional coffee shops in the city that also offer a tasty brunch spread. Whether you're after pancakes, pastries or something more savory, the brunch spots certainly don't disappoint.

For tasty savory dishes and coffee, try out Recyclo Bike Cafe. If juice and a flat white is more your style, The Last Monkey Juice and Coffee take their coffee seriously. Or if you want a cafe dedicated to the pursuit of brunch, take a stroll over to Desal Café Ollerías. You can fuel up for the day while planning what you're going to explore.

Watching a sunset is a delight under almost any circumstances, but watching it from a rooftop bar in Malaga with a cold beer in front of you is utterly magical. Fortunately, this experience is very easily achievable in Malaga because there is an abundance of rooftop bars across the city. Some of the bars even come with DJs or live music to complete the ambiance.

Prices at the rooftop bars range from wallet-friendly to lavish, so be sure to check prices before you head up so you don’t get stung when the bill arrives. La Alcazaba is well-priced and has a lively energy about it, and because of these things, it is fast becoming one of Malaga’s premier rooftop destinations.

The Molina Lario, Salles, and Room Mate Larios hotels have excellent rooftops that are a little pricier, but very cool. But, with or without the price tag, the sunset is the same wherever you see it from. So, if you can’t afford the cocktails, don’t worry – the sunset will still be spectacular. And, once it’s finished you can grab a bottle of beer from the nearest shop to quench your thirst.  

what to visit in malaga

Flamenco is characterized by the colorful dresses, with ruffles at the bottom, for women and the sleek waistcoats and tight trousers for men. It is a dance for one person and when done properly, it is truly captivating. The dance consists of one person making small dance movements, stamping, and clapping in time to the music while the other person sits and plays the guitar.

If you want to experience authentic flamenco, there are a few places you should hit up. The Tipi Tapa restaurant is known for its excellent selection of tapas dishes and has flamenco performances several times a week (but check the schedule online first). Tablao los Amayos, Sala el Embrujo, and Flamenco Amargo Tavern are also great venues to see flamenco.

However, if you ask any Malaga local where you should go, the vast majority will tell you to head over to the Peña Juan Breva club, which even has a flamenco museum on-site.

If you'd like to wine and dine before the show, check out this tapas, wine, and flamenco tour . On this tour, a guide will take you to three different taverns or wine cellars where you'll try different wines and tapas. While walking from one tavern to the next, your guide will tell you about the history of Malaga. You'll end the night with a great flamenco show.  

malaga city break

As you might imagine, the main activity in the Montes de Malaga Natural Park is hiking. There are five walking trails that run through the park. They are clearly signposted and range in length, with the shortest being a 2.5km jaunt and the longest being a more arduous 7km from start to finish.

If you take the Picapedros route, you’ll have the chance to see the Picapedros waterfall. This is the longest trail, but if you have the time and the energy you’ll be rewarded for your efforts. The scenery is stunning and you’ll wind up at the La Concepciòn Botanical Gardens.  

malaga things to do

The suspended bridges take you from one side of the gorge in the Guadalhorce Valley to the other, and enroute way you are rewarded with magnificent views. It's an official trail and you need to buy a ticket at the start, where they will also provide you with a helmet to protect you from falling rocks. Check opening times before you make the trip, the easiest option is to go on a guided tour from Malaga that includes transport like this one .  

sunset boat trip Malaga

Just outside Malaga, there are several historic, picturesque towns worth a visit. Many of the towns are whitewashed in the Moorish style and are beautiful to stroll around and snap some pictures.

Check out Zahara de la Sierra for mountain top views or Frigiliana which is only 45 minutes from Malaga city center. There's a cute square in the middle of the town where you can get a coffee, sit in the sun and watch the world go by.  

malaga tours

I've looked up some Malaga tours for you that come recommended:

  • Malaga by Segway
  • Malaga bike tour from the Old Town to the Marina and the beach
  • 2-hour historical center and cathedral tour
  • Malaga Hop-on Hop-off bus tour
  • 2.5-hour private walking tour

And that's it for my list of fun things to do in Malaga! If you also want to know where you can find them all, check out the Malaga city map I created below.  

I travel a lot and I have built up a selection of sites that I always use when I book my trips. These are reliable websites with good prices and a wide range of options. I've listed them for you below to help you book your trip to Malaga.

Where to stay in Malaga I book my hotels on Booking.com because it has a wide range of filtering options. Its Genius program also entitles you to special discounts after you’ve made a few bookings.

Book your flight to Malaga Skyscanner offers a comparison of flight prices across many different airlines. It also has a useful price alert feature.

Taking the train to Malaga I often use Omio to buy my train tickets abroad. It does charge a small fee but I find it very user-friendly, it's available in English, and the app is great too.

Renting a car in Malaga You won't need a car in the city but if you plan on making some trips around the south of Spain, Rentalcars.com is a good place to look. This site compares hundreds of rental car companies in order to find the best deal based on your personal search criteria.

Airport transfers Welcome Pickups is great for booking airport transfers. Their site is super userfriendly and you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand if needed.

Tours, tickets, and activities in Malaga Spain GetYourGuide is easy-to-use and offers everything from day trips to skip-the-line tickets.  

So, which of these things to do in Malaga goes at the top of your list? &nbsp,

Plan for the best, prepare for the worst. Travel insurance has you covered in case (part of) your trip gets canceled, you get sick or hurt abroad, and sometimes even when your electronics break or get stolen. I always make sure I'm covered every trip I go on.

Don't have travel insurance yet? Check out SafetyWing. They offer super flexible plans that you can even sign up for while you're already on your trip. On top of that, they were the first travel insurance to cover COVID, and when I got COVID, they reimbursed all of my expenses without making a fuss. Their customer support team is great and I can personally recommend them.  

Looking for things to do in Malaga Spain? This post takes you from the beach to the shopping streets, good food, and much more. Check it out

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The magnificent city of Malaga is a popular tourist destination in Europe. The culturally rich coastal city in the autonomous community of Andalucia was once described by the poet Vicente Aleixandre as a 'paradise between the sky and the earth'.

Malaga is a sunny paradise with miles and miles of enchanting shoreline, mesmerising scenery, and pristine beaches . The region enjoys a subtropical Mediterranean climate throughout the year as it is snuggled between the two riverbeds and is surrounded by the mighty mountains. It has numerous parks, exciting landmarks and plenty of sightseeing places, making it an ideal place to spend a family vacation.

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Parks & Wildlife

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Malaga Park

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Alcazaba of Malaga

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Also known as La Manquita (the one-armed lady), the Cathedral of Malaga is a beautiful Renaissance-style cathedral with a mix of...

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How to get there - transport information

Select the means of transport to see how to get there or how to get around at your destination.

How to get to aeroplane

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport is located 8 kilometres from the city.

The airport bus, “ A Express Aeropuerto ”, runs to and from Malaga city centre in about 15 minutes, and is available day and night.

A local train line takes you to Torremolinos or Malaga in under 15 minutes, and to the Málaga María Zambrano station. It also connects to other places on the Costa del Sol, such as Fuengirola and Benalmádena.

More information

How to get to train

The María Zambrano station connects to Madrid via the AVE high-speed train network and the journey takes less than three hours. Other AVE lines run to Cordoba, Zaragoza and Barcelona. 

In the city centre, just 2 kilometres from the port and 9 from the airport.

You can easily leave the station by public transport: city bus lines (1, 3, 4, 10, 16, 20, 27, A, Circular 1 and Circular 2) and the N1 night bus line.

Book your ticket

How to get to boat

The port is very close to the centre of the city.

One of the main cruise ports on the Peninsula. The cruise terminal is about 3 kilometres from the port entrance, and when cruise ships are in harbour there are regular bus services.

You can easily leave the port by public transport: bus lines (8, 10, 20, 25 and M-160) and the C-1 and C-2 train lines.

How to get to bus

The bus and coach station is next to María Zambrano railway station, in central Malaga.

The airport bus, “ A Express Aeropuerto ”, takes about 15 minutes to reach the airport.

How to get there by road

From the north on the A-45 road.

The A-7 Mediterranean motorway runs along the province’s coastline.

Practical information

Most tourist points of interest are concentrated within the city centre, which makes it easy to explore them on foot.

The Málaga Pass card can be for 24, 48 or 72 hour, or a week. It gives free entrance to many museums and monuments, and offers discounts at other establishments.

How to get around in metro/tram

There are two Metro lines linking the centre to the university area and the western part of the city. 

It operates between 6:30 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., except for Fridays, Saturdays and the eve of public holidays, when it runs until 1:30 a.m. On Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, services start at 7 a.m.

How to get around in bus

The regular service covers every neighbourhood in the city and usually runs from 06:20 to 00:00.

There are four night metro lines which operate regular services between around 00:00 and 06:00. More information

The tourist bus allows you to visit all the monuments in Malaga. You can hop on and off as many times as you like. More Information

How to get around in other means of transport

Taxi: easily identifiable white vehicles with a blue stripe. A green light on the roof shows they are available.

Horse and carriage: routes of around 45 minutes taking in the main sights.

There are more unusual and environmentally friendly ways to get around Malaga, such as electric vehicles, bicycles, or the Puerto de Málaga sightseeing train.

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73 Fun Things to Do in Málaga, Spain

fun things to do in Malaga

Straddling the golden sands of Spain’s Costa del Sol, Málaga is a vibrant, outdoor paradise that fuses ancient history with modern flair and an extra serving of lip-smacking tapas.

As the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, the art and culture scene is second to none; and with not one, not two, but sixteen sun-kissed beaches along its sparkling shoreline — and countless hikes, hills, and historical landmarks tucked away inland — this Andalusian city dishes up something for everyone.

Not only limited to the creative, get served a bowl of adrenaline during off-road quad ventures through the rocky mountain ranges, feel the thrills as you parasail over the deep blue, or explore underwater when snorkeling (or scuba diving) its clear ocean.

The town forms part of the Málaga Province, and 11 districts comprise the city. Dotted in local villages, there are fabulous day trips to venture on for a taste of the authentic, Spanish lifestyle.

From the labyrinth of Old Town streets to its contemporary, chirpy seafront promenade, Málaga has all bases covered. So, what are you waiting for? With 65 unique and unusual things to do in Málaga (and that’s just the tip of the iceberg), it’s time to start planning your next getaway!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

  • Málaga tours

1 – Take a tour of the foreboding Alcazaba

Alcazaba, Malaga

Perched on the slopes of the lush and green Gibralfaro Mountain, this palace meets fortress is truly a sight to behold.

With a chaptered history that dates back to the 11th century beginning with the Moorish era, the hilltop Málaga icon is known for its remains of Roman walls, its mix of architectural styles (Roman, Moorish, Renaissance), and most of all, its amazing panoramic view of the city and its skyline.

While you’re there, don’t miss this often-overlooked Airón well which stretches some 40 meters deep!

  • Alcazaba tours

2 – Step back in time at the Roman Theatre

Roman Theatre, Malaga

Sitting at the base of the dramatic Alcazaba, this historical monument is just one of the many jewels that adorn this Mediterranean city. Steeped in historical and archeological significance, with its origins in Moorish and Roman times, it is believed to be among Europe’s oldest theaters, loosely dating back to the first century A.D.

Whether you join a guided tour or explore solo, there are plenty of unique artifacts and educational displays to check out.

Hot tip: If you’re pinching pennies, a range of free walking tours explore both the Roman Theatre and Alcazaba fortress — just make sure to leave a tip for your friendly guide.

  • Roman Theatre tours

3 – Check off all the main attractions with the hop-on-hop-off bus

hop-on-hop-off bus, Malaga

Short or time or don’t feel like walking all around town? Don’t worry, Málaga has got your back. With the hop-on-hop-off bus service, you’ll see all of the city’s sights with ease and comfort without having to go out of your way or break a sweat getting there!

Hop onto one of their double-deckers for an open-air experience that lets you take in Málaga views like never before, stopping at over a dozen essential landmarks like Gibralfaro Castle, the Roman Theatre, Mercado Central de Atarazanas (central market), Málaga Cathedral, and, of course, the sandy sunkissed beach.

  • bus tours in Málaga

4 – Soak in the view from the Gibralfaro Castle

Gibralfaro Castle, Malaga

A highly photographed ancient landmark and easily one of the essential things to do in Málaga (whether you’re a history buff or not), the Gibralfaro Castle is a citadel perched atop the hill for which it takes its name.

Looming over Málaga city, this Moorish castle was originally constructed in the 14th century and later reconstructed during the Renaissance period to what you see today — all of which have been well-preserved thanks to their inclusion on Spain’s list of national monuments!

History and architecture aside, if you are after killer views — particularly as the sun goes down — make a beeline for the Mirador de Gibralfaro (translating to Gibralfaro lookout). At 132 meters above sea level, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better sunset spot.

  • Gibralfaro Castle tours

5 – Stroll around La Concepción Historical Botanical Gardens

La Concepción Historical Botanical Gardens in Malaga

If you’re a plant lover, this peaceful haven is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

With 50,000 plants spread across acres of pristinely kept gardens and orchards, La Concepción boasts over 2,000 species from around the world — including plants from Chile, Europe, and North America as well as some rare specimens that are indigenous only to the area.

And as if that wasn’t enough, you’ll also find a fascinating set of sculptures by local artists dotted around the site; more than 100 species of palms and bamboo; and a history that dates back over 150 years!

Hot tip: the best time to visit the Garden is spring and summer, but be sure to check the Garden’s website to see when specific plants will be in bloom.

6 – Get inspired by the bold and revolutionary cubist paintings at the Picasso Museum

Picasso Museum, Malaga

Art aficionados, listen up! One of the must-see museums in Málaga is none other than Picasso’s birthplace, a fascinating, art-filled space dedicated to showcasing some of this celebrated artist’s most divine work.

As you’d expect, there are plenty of paintings and sketches on display (over 285 works in total) that date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, with many never seen before by the public!

And if Picasso’s collection wasn’t exciting enough, the Museum itself is housed within a stunning restored 16th-century palace!

  • Picasso Museum tickets

7 – Zoom around Málaga Park on a Segway tour

segway tours in Málaga

Can’t be bothered walking? For a fun and new way to experience the city, consider booking yourself on one of the Segway tours!

On these guided tours — some as short as just as 30 minutes, others up to 2 hours — you’ll cover at least a few miles as your knowledgeable guide leads you through Málaga’s most famous sights.

From the ornate fountains and leafy botanical gardens in Málaga Park to the city’s main historic monuments and Málaga’s very own Picasso museum, a two-wheel tour will give you the lowdown on all that this stunning city has to offer.

  • segway tours in Málaga

8 – Make your way through the rugged limestone cliffs of a dramatic gorge as you hike along the Caminito del Rey trail

Caminito del Rey day trip from Málaga

Not for those afraid of heights, the 7.7km-long Caminito del Rey is an iconic series of ridge trails and precarious bridges that cling to the steep cliffs along Málaga’s Guadalhorce Valley.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this dramatic walkway was originally created in the early 20th by King Alfonso XIII to connect the opposing sides of the gorge; over time it was updated to become the stunning trails we know and love today.

While the hike takes about three hours, because of its one-way nature, it’s best to visit on a guided tour where transport and logistics are all taken care of.

  • Caminito del Rey tours from Málaga

9 – Enjoy the melodies during dreamy candlelight concerts

candlelight concerts in Malaga

What is it about candlelight that’s so whimsical and magical to us 21st-century humans? Whenever there are candles, romance fills the air; with that being said, these candlelight concerts in Málaga are mightily special.

Arriving at a unique and unusual location for a concert, enter the venue space where hundreds of candles are placed around the room, lighting up an intimate setting and creating the perfect scene for a show.

There are a few candlelight concerts to choose from in Málaga … Step back in time and appreciate the classical sounds of Italian composer, Antonio Vivaldi, and his ‘Four Seasons’ compositions, performed by a string quartet at the Carmen Thyssen Museum.

Also at the same location is a tribute candlelight concert to ABBA as interpreted by the Melissando Quartet.

From “Bohemian Rhapsody” to “I Want to Break Free” to “Killer Queen,” enjoy the sounds of all your favorite Queen hits at Unicaja María Cristina Concert Hall, or instead of one artist, enjoy a melody of all the greatest rock bands like Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, AC/DC and more.

  • candlelight concerts in Málaga

10 – Head off-road and rumble around the natural wonders of Andalusia on a jeep tour

jeep tours near Málaga

Fancy taking a break from the bustle of central Málaga and the sun-kissed beaches? Get off the beaten track and into the natural scenery of the Sierra De Las Nieves National Park on the back of a fast-paced jeep and look out for wildlife and stunning wild flora. Stop off to take a dip in a cooling river and cruise on to discover typical white-washed villages so characteristic of the region.

Other jeep adventures include discovering the gorgeous town of Istan, surrounded by lush Mediterranean forests for some views of the emerald waters of the Rio Verde.

Archeology enthusiasts will have a field day during an archeological jeep tour to discover some Neolithic sites hidden away in the Sierra de Málaga. Uncover the fascinating city of Acinipo before learning more at the museum.

  • jeep tours in Málaga

11 – Marvel at the palaces and mosque during a Seville Cordoba day trip

Seville & Cordoba day trip from Malaga

Looking to head inland for a day and experience more of what Andalusia has to offer? Seville and Córdoba are two of the most beautiful cities in Spain that you can easily visit from Málaga — and typically both on the same day!

Bustling with old-world charm, both destinations have a little something for everyone — from vibrant flamenco shows to lively tapas bars. In Seville especially, don’t miss the famous Cathedral and sprawling Maria Luisa Park; while in Cordoba, be sure to check out the immense La Mezquita mosque, a beautiful symbol of ancient architecture dating back to the 700s!

See Also: Mezquita de Córdoba Tickets – Everything You Should Know

12 – Admire the art at the Carmen Thyssen Museum

Carmen Thyssen Museum, Malaga

One for the culture vultures, the Carmen Thyssen Museum houses a world-class collection of 19th and 20th-century Spanish paintings (although with some as old as the 1500s), including works by Raimundo Madrazo, Emilio Sánchez-Perrier and Martín Rico Ortega among many others.

Tickets for the museum include access to the temporary exhibition hall where you’ll find modern contemporary pieces from Spain’s finest artists to complement the three permanent displays.

To top it off, even the building which houses the museum — a 16th-century Renaissance palace — is a work of art!

  • Carmen Thyssen Museum tickets

13 – Pass by Plaza de la Merced on a walking tour

walking tours in Málaga

Led by a friendly local, walking tours resort you through the winding streets of Málaga’s historic center, uncovering a treasure trove of architectural gems.

None more important to the city’s history, located at the top end of Calle Granada, the Plaza de la Merced is where you’ll find a centuries-old market (a good time to practice your Spanish haggling!), Pablo Picasso’s childhood home , and an endless list of busy cafes and energetic bars.

A cool way to document your moments in Málaga City is by booking a professional photoshoot . Have candid snaps photographed of you as you explore the streets and sites by a pro, and if you’re an up-and-coming influencer you might wanna consider this one.

Or, you can choose a designated location around Málaga to shoot.

(These shoots are fabulous for travelers celebrating special occasions like engagements, honeymoons and anniversaries, or even for families to capture an unforgettable family holiday.)

  • walking tours in Málaga

14 – Tour round the magnificent Renaissance gem of Málaga Cathedral

Malaga Cathedral

The postcards simply don’t do it justice; few churches in the world can compare to Málaga Cathedral.

Towering 84 meters above the former site of a 15th-century mosque, the famed Renaissance church is an enormous, awe-inspiring monument to the city’s long history.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has seen more than its fair share of drama (stories of which are told on guided tours); but its beauty, through its sprawling courtyard, ornately decorated chapels, and marvelous frescoes prevail.

Seeking a great view? Consider the rooftop tour as well!

  • Málaga Cathedral tours

15 – Discover the town via a tuk tuk city tour

tuk tuk tours in Málaga

If you want to explore the ins and outs of Málaga for a day, but your feet have already had their fair share of walking, you can always opt for a fun tuk-tuk city tour instead.

Whether you’ve been in town for a few days already, or have only just arrived, you’re bound to learn something new during these eco-friendly drives. You have the option to book a one, 1.5 or two-hour tour.

Be personally driven around the city, passing by important monuments with your driver sharing historical background and local insights for each, stop by some of the most iconic city sites and enjoy rounds of photo-taking.

There are normal tuk-tuk tours as well as private options if you just want to venture as a small group.

Some of the places to visit on the agenda include Gibralfaro castle, Málaga Cathedral, Centre Pompidou, La Malagueta Beach, La Farola de Málaga lighthouse and more!

  • tuk tuk city tours in Málaga

16 – Soak in the sun at Costa del Sol’s best beaches

Costa del Sol’s best beaches, Malaga

As you’d expect from a Mediterranean coastline, the beaches that line Málaga’s southern side are super popular with locals and tourists alike — and with barely any rain year-round, there’s seldom a bad time to work on the tan.

Whether it’s for sunbathing, stand-up paddleboarding , or kitesurfing that takes your fancy; there is truly something to suit all tastes on this stretch of Costa del Sol!

A beloved spot for locals, the clean and manmade Playa la Malagueta is easily Málaga’s most famous urban beach, never shy of activity or excitement. A little further from the city center and therefore not as crowded, Playa Peñon del Cuervo is known for its characteristic rock formation (Raven Rock) and nighttime bonfire parties.

For those who prefer a little more easy-going, Playa de el Palo boasts shallow waters that make it ideal for a family-friendly day out; but with plenty of waterfront beach bars, the partygoers can find plenty of fun here too.

17 – Get artsy at the Centre Pompidou

Centre Pompidou, Malaga

The sister museum to the iconic eponymous Parisian institute, Málaga’s Centre Pompidou is the first affiliate outside of France and therefore a must-see for those eager to see some of the most cutting-edge contemporary art around!

Anchored by permanent Impressionist exhibits, there’s plenty to explore from works by the likes of Picasso and Warhol to a variety of modern works by up-and-coming contemporary artists. Plus, with two to three temporary exhibits per year, there’s always something new to discover.

  • Centre Pompidou tickets

18 – Stuff your face on a food tour

food tour in Málaga

With so much of the local culture surrounding food, dedicated tasting tours are a great way to get an introduction to Spanish cuisine — we’re talkin’ tapas, Fritura Malaguena, paella, sherry, and a whole lot more

Whether you opt for a bike tour, walking tour, or even one that includes a flamenco show (and, of course, how could we forget about wine tasting !), you’ll be absolutely stuffed by the time it comes to finish up.

  • food tours in Málaga

19 – Check off two attractions at once at the Málaga Museum

Málaga Museum

Despite being the biggest museum in Andalusia and the 5th in Spain altogether, the Málaga museum remains underrated, often overlooked in favor of Picasso.

Still, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Provincial Archaeological Museum hold centuries’ worth of beautiful art and fascinating history in their halls through two separate collections.

Art aficionados are delighted by the Spanish Fine Arts collection (think Luis de Morales, Velázquez, Goya and Zurbarán) while history buffs certainly appreciate the building in which it sits: the 18th-century Palacio de la Aduana de Málaga.

20 – Stand up on your board and ride those waves in style during surf lessons

surf near Málaga

Ever dreamed of becoming a surfer? Make your dreams become reality with a fun beginner session on the stunning beaches of Málaga. With the help of a qualified instructor, master the technique of how to pop up and get in the correct position to catch that perfect wave.

Whether you fancy just an hour of class to build up your confidence or a full-on surf course over a period of several days, there’s something available for everyone.

There is even the possibility of a class using an electric surfboard if you want to try something super innovative and edgy! Pick up speed, get the adrenaline pumping, and glide across the ocean surface using your electric board!

  • surf lessons in Málaga

21 – Explore the Port of Málaga with a bike tour

bike tours in Málaga

Explore the city like a local on two wheels; to get your heart racing and tick off not only the iconic landmarks but also must-see hidden gems off the beaten track, Málaga’s bike tours come highly recommended.

Whether you’re after something leisurely or a little more thrilling, there are several different bike tours to choose from — including short and sweet highlights tours; rides around the stunning Port of Málaga that roll through the Palm Grove of Surprises; tapas and wine-themed tours, and even mountain biking trips through the beautiful Montes de Málaga National Park!

  • bike tours in Málaga

22 – Spend a day or two exploring the White Towns of Andalusia

White Towns of Andalusia day trip from Malaga

On the cusp of Málaga’s Province, a series of ‘White Towns’ — small rural villages with a Moorish influence and a whitewashed heritage that lend it their name — are within easy reach from the city.

The White towns feature highly amongst some of the best places to visit in Andalusia due to their attractive and historic architecture, winding cobbled streets, and often elevated hilltop positions providing stunning views over the surrounding natural countryside.

The beautiful and historical Ronda , whose two halves are divided by the dramatic El Tajo gorge, is actually the third most-visited area in southern Spain (and for good reason). Setenil de las Bodegas boasts a geography as unique as they come, literally built into the rockface with cliffs acting as a dramatic backdrop for the main streets; while the two-section town of Frigiliana is a labyrinth of white-washed streets and Moorish architecture worthy of countless photos.

And, if you’re after one more, Zahara de la Sierra sits perched on a former border fortification, dramatically overlooking the valley from its dominating hilltop position.

Hot tip: for the best bang for your buck, consider a tour that visits multiple White Villages in one day (and includes lunch).

23 – Embrace the refreshing Mediterranean breeze and the coastline of golden sands on a scenic boat

boat tour in Málaga

With the 47-kilometer-long Guadalmadina River running through Málaga’s core, and the shores of the warm Alboran Sea greeting its southern beaches, water activities are never too far away.

Whether it’s sightseeing and sunbathing on board; or snorkeling , scuba diving, and even dolphin watching (yes — in Spain!) that tickles your fancy; the possibilities are endless on a Málaga boat tour. Plus, with food and free-flowing drinks typically included, it’s a great way to meet and mingle with fellow travelers.

For something a little more subdued, why not consider a romantic dinner cruise or sunset sail, or even rent your own boat for a day?

  • boat tours in Málaga

24 – Go horse riding through the mountains

horse riding near Málaga

Brimming with mountains, rolling rocky hillsides and coastal pathways, if horse riding is one of your favorite pastimes, the Málaga landscape creates postcard-worthy scenes to trot through.

There is a multitude of guided horse riding experiences to take your pick from.

Keen on a long ride? Enjoy a two-hour expedition through the Sierra de las Nieves National Park starting from El Burgo in Málaga province. Pass by a farmhouse, through oak forests and sweep in the all-round views. Suitable for ages four years and older, there are also one-hour trails in the park if two hours is too much.

Looking for romantic things to do in Málaga? You can’t beat a dreamy horseback ride along the beach (in the Torremolinos area). Appreciate this gorgeous coastline, and trails start at Los Álamos Beach.

If you’ve never ridden before, opt for horseback rides in Los Borbollones. Starting in open fields, trot around the private area filled with olive tree vineyards and running streams.

Or, head to the Club Hípico El Roble (El Roble Equestrian Club) where you can enjoy practice time before the ride. You will also be given a horse suitable for you based on your height, experience, age, etc.

The connection between horse and human is quite special, able to connect on a much deeper level than you think possible; remember to always treat these majestic creatures with the utmost respect.

  • horse riding in Málaga

25 – Uncover the historic Moorish quarters and stunning Islamic architecture during a Granada day trip

Granada day trip from Málaga

Despite being only an hour and a half away, many travelers tend to forget about Granada because of its inland location. But with its Alhambra Palace and stunning cathedral alone making it worth the visit (not to mention the vibrant culture and thriving foodie scene) you’ll soon find yourself wondering why this place isn’t on everyone’s Spanish itinerary!

The city itself is surprisingly lively; hilly streets are lined with quaint cottages and an abundance of secret gardens, while the main square – Plaza Bib-Rambla – is always bustling with locals and tourists alike.

  • Granada tours from Málaga

See Also: Alhambra Tickets Price – All you Need to Know

26 – Set sail on an exciting whale watching expedition to spot some awesome marine life

whale watching near Málaga

Set sail on an exciting expedition from Benalmádena (slightly south of Málaga) to try and glimpse some fascinating Short-Finned Pilot Whales, characteristic for their round head shape! It is very common to see dolphins who enjoy swimming alongside the boats and there are many different species in the Mediterranean waters such as playful common dolphins, gray Risso’s dolphin, and the curious Bottlenose dolphin.

It is also possible to sometimes see graceful turtles swimming through the turquoise sea. The turtles tend to be spotted more frequently during the summer months where they come closer to the shore to play around in the warm waters and forage for food.

Further down the coast there are also whale-watching trips that disembark from Estepona and Sotogrande.

  • whale watching tours in Málaga

27 – Feel the thrills during parasailing

parasailing tours in Málaga

Not to be confused with paragliding (explore more later), if there is a body of water nearby, you might hit the jackpot with a parasailing adventure — just like the ones in Málaga!

Harnessed in and attached by a mechanical rope to the back of a speedboat, prepare to be pulled up into the air by your parachute as you cruise 200 meters above the Mediterranean ocean, with bird’s eye views of the local topography.

With a few options to choose from, different parasailing ventures take their guests to varied locations around Málaga. Important to note; the sky ride only begins once you’re out at sea and away from crowds of people and other boats.

For example, some start from the beach in Fuengirola, and others in Benalmadena or Estepona. For this endeavor, you will need to travel between 30 minutes to one hour to reach either three locations. Benalmadena is closest, whilst the furthest is Estepona.

  • parasailing in Málaga

28 – Step inside a fairytale castle at the Colomares Monument

Colomares Monument, Malaga

The Colomares Monument is a striking structure — part castle, part ship sculpture — that proudly covers more than 1,500 meters near the town of Rancho Domingo.

Very much a fairytale-looking castle, the monument was constructed in 1994 to commemorate Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World (and his supposed final resting place), it has since become one of Andalusia’s most iconic sights.

Admire the soaring arches, the towering turrets, elegant battlements, and extraordinary sculptural decorations. You will be utterly astonished by the eclectic blend of architectural styles merging Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and Neo-Mudejar elements!

Keep in mind: while open all year, it’s only accessible from Wednesday to Sunday.

29 – Grab some fresh produce at the Atarazanas Market

Atarazanas Market, Malaga

The Atarazanas market, also known as the ‘Central Market’, is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity. Formerly a 14th-century Moorish shipyard, these days it acts as a beacon for locals and tourists alike; its rows brim with everything from local produce (think fish, meat, cheese, and fresh fruit) to clothing and souvenirs. It’s a great place to do some shopping or just people-watch!

The market is typically open Monday to Saturday, from 8 am to around 3 pm, so there’s plenty of time to pop by — however, why not opt for a real local experience and join a guided tour instead?

  • Atarazanas Market tours

30 – Enjoy an airplane flight’s unique views and scenery

airplane tour over Málaga

From land to sea to air, what can’t you try out in this city? More affordable than you think, feel extra fancy with a private airplane flight around Málaga.

Leisurely flights start in Vélez-Málaga (and end in Málaga) and the planes take off from the Axarquía Airport. Reaching heights of up to 350 meters, soar over tiny villages and coastal towns including Caleta de Velez, Algarrobo, and Torre del Mar.

Have you always felt stuck in the wrong profession? As an alternative, you can live out your lifelong aviation dreams and opt for an airplane flight that includes an entire briefing on how the plane works and is operated.

Once in the sky, you can even copilot and get to fly the plane yourself! Of course, this is only under the guidance of an actual pilot — sitting right next to you!

Some shorter flights choose to hover around Málaga town itself, which is great for sightseeing from above, swooping over the Málaga Cathedral, for example. These flights start at the Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport.

  • airplane tours in Málaga

31 – Race around town in a scavenger game

scavenger game in Málaga

Sick of slow-paced walking tours? Why not take it up a notch with an Amazing Race-style scavenger hunt that’ll have you exploring the city, discovering new places, and having a blast with friends?

Led from the convenience of your phone, the array of interactive games will have you cracking codes, solving riddles, and ticking off must-see landmarks the whole way through.

There’s also a treasure hunt scavenger game for children to keep the kids fully entertained and engaged. Come together as a family as you search for hidden treasure among emblematic landmarks such as the central market, the grand Calle Larios, or the leafy Málaga park.

Traveling with the gals? Consider a fun-filled, far-from-G-rated Hens Night or bachelorette tour!

  • scavenger games in Málaga

32 – Take a day trip to Marbella and spot dolphins!

Marbella day trip from Málaga

This white-washed Andalusian village in the shadows of the Sierra Blanca Mountains is quickly becoming one of southern Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on visiting while it retains its quaint charm.

While famous for its pristine beaches, pumping nightclubs, and luxury venues, thanks to its proximity to the water, it’s also a hot spot for dolphin watching !

Spend the morning watching the pods jump above the surface before exploring the port and grabbing some tantalizing tapas at one of Marbella’s many beachfront cafes.

Some of the best things to do in Marbella include admiring the luxurious yachts in the Puerto Banús marina, passing over the ancient Roman bridge, or engaging in a round of golf on one of the widely renowned courses.

  • Marbella tours from Málaga

33 – Hop around the city’s best tapas bars

El Pimpi, Málaga

Looking for the best tapas bars in Málaga? You’re not alone. In search of all-time classics and modern favorites, people from across the globe flock here every year looking for a slice of Spain.

And with good reason too! As well as being famous for its seafood and traditional dishes such as paella or gazpacho, Málaga has developed a reputation for its eclectic selection of tapas bars.

Next to the Picasso Museum, El Pimpi is wildly popular for both locals and tourists alike; La Recova is a quirky spot known for its breakfast; El Tapeo de Cervantes is small but mighty, and calling ahead to reserve a spot is highly recommended; the Anyway Wine Bar provides plenty of wine by the glass options along with gourmet cheeses and classic Spanish charcuterie; and if it’s empanadas you’re after, look no further than La Tranca !

34 – Come face to face with striking stalactite formations at the mystical and ancient Nerja Caves

Nerja day trips from Málaga

A spellbinding natural attraction, Nerja is famous for its labyrinthine caves that stretch for almost 5 kilometers, found about 40 minutes east of Málaga proper.

Explore this ancient network of caverns and underground passageways on a guided tour before retreating to the nearby Mediterranean shore for a swim.

It is incredible to think that these spellbinding cave tunnels and passages were only discovered in such recent history back in 1959!

A trip around the caves is a perfect activity to avoid the strong Andalucian sun during the hottest summer months! Embrace the cool, shaded underground chambers such as the enormous 32-meter-high cave known as the ‘Cataclysm Chamber’ and gawk at the awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites dangling down and glistening from the ceilings.

Hot tip: to save a few bucks as well as the hassle, some travelers opt to combine a Nerja trip with a stop at Frigiliana.

  • Nerja tours from Málaga

35 – Take a journey through time at the Automobile Museum

Automobile Museum, Malaga

Any petrolheads out there? Whether you’re into classic cars or modern marvels, this museum has it all. Housed in an original former tobacco factory, this spacious building provides the perfect space to showcase some fantastic automobile models!

With over 90 fabulously maintained classic cars on display, together with showing the fascinating evolution of the industry, this museum is a must-see for anyone with an interest in the automotive world. Look out for the private vintage car collection of Joao Magalhaes, one of the most important vintage car collections worldwide!

Classic cars aside, the Museum also showcases a rather impressive fashion section; you’ll discover exuberant dresses, sparkling jewelry, rare head-turning hats, and a whole lot more.

  • Automobile Museum tickets

36 – Go canyoning down waterfalls!

canyoning near Málaga

A must-consider for fearless thrill-seekers, canyoning is simply walking, jumping, and swimming your way down a river gorge…with ropes.

While the experience might seem frightening at first, with experienced guides to help you through the stunning scenery of the Rio Verde Gorge or Zarzalones, you can be assured that utmost safety (and adrenaline) is guaranteed.

Discover the Zarzalones Gorge in the heart of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park full of crystal clear waters, rocky pools, and magnificent waterfalls! If you opt for the Rio Verde Gorge expect bright emerald green waters (hence the name in Spanish), steep limestone cliffs, and lush vegetation providing the backdrop for some epic action-packed photographs!

After all, is there any better way to experience Aldalucia’s most amazing waterfalls and canyons than from the inside?

  • canyoning in Málaga

37 – Marvel at marine creatures when scuba diving

scuba diving near Málaga

Instead of just admiring the deep blue from the shorelines, discover its underwater paradise for yourself when scuba diving!

If you’ve never gone scuba diving, don’t worry, scuba operators offer courses for first-timers, conjoined with a scuba diving experience afterward in the space of a few hours. With great instructors who make everything easy to understand, you’ll be exploring the depths of the ocean in no time!

(If this isn’t your first rodeo, there are advanced open-water PADI courses available too.)

Different scuba expeditions introduce divers to varied spots and seabeds. Some tours take off from Punta de la Mona Beach or Playa La Herradura (also known as the Horseshoe Beach).

Others travel east of Málaga to La Cala del Moral beach, or to one of the other beach bays also situated along the Rincón de la Victoria coastal trail.

  • scuba diving in Málaga

38 – Immerse yourself with the animals at Bioparc Fuengirola

Bioparc Fuengirola in Málaga

For a day of fun and learning, head to the Bioparc Fuengirola – easily one of the more enjoyable things to do in Málaga for anyone traveling with kids in tow.

A large part zoo and animal park, this expansive space is filled with various themed exhibits where you’ll come face-to-face with hundreds of different species from all across the world!

Far from your typical zoo, however, the Bioparc is arranged with various zoo-immersion zones that put visitors (safely) in the animal’s environment to make visitors feel like they’re surrounded by the wilderness from which the animals originate — yes, you’re actually thrown into the jungle!

39 – Relax and unwind at Hammam Al Andalus

Hammam Al Andalus, Malaga

Hammam Al Andalus is a relaxing oasis, hidden away in the city center of Málaga — close enough to walk to all the main attractions, but secluded enough for a quiet and peaceful pampering.

The opulent Arabian baths’ interior boasts beautiful mosaics and pillars made from marble.

Transport yourself back to the Moorish times as you gaze up at the beautiful skylights and intricate lattice work that reflect the light and water patterns. Watch the geometric tiles flicker in the candlelight and sip on cleansing herbal mint tea.

Open your pores in the warming steam room to soften your skin and lie back in the relaxing rest room as the gentle rhythms of Andalusian music wash over your mind and body.

A beautiful atmosphere to complement the wide range of treatments and massages on offer: choose from hot and cold baths, deep tissue massages, scrubs, and more.

  • Hammam Al Andalus in Málaga

40 – Check out the rock formations at El Torcal de Antequera

El Torcal de Antequera, hiking in Malaga

One of Andalusia’s most unique natural attractions, El Torcal de Antequera is a nature reserve located about an hour’s drive north of Málaga renowned for its series of enormous limestone towers jutting out from the cliffside.

These jaw-dropping limestone formations are estimated to be around 150 million years old meaning that they date back to the Jurassic period!

A perfect getaway for photographers and hikers alike, visitors can choose to hike along the three main trails (Green, Yellow, and Orange), with different lengths and difficulties to suit all ages.

When hiking through El Torcal make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the limestone formations that have been given names due to their incredible shade such as the Sphinx or the Star!

Hikers can try and spot impressive birds of prey circling overhead or perched among the rock faces such as the glorious Bonelli eagle, the speedy Peregrine falcon, or the large Griffon vulture!

  • hiking tours in Málaga

41 – Unleash your creativity for some hilarious photo opportunities at the quirky Museum of Imagination

Museum of Imagination, Malaga

Combining the worlds of imagination, play, and learning in a unique educational space, this museum is perfect for kids (and kids at heart) who are eager to learn about science and creativity.

Above all else, it’s about enjoyment here; with lots of fun activities designed to stimulate children’s minds through interactive sessions, optical illusions, hands-on displays, and wonderful photo opportunities sure to puzzle the onlookers at home.

Play around with lights and shadows and snap some quirky family photos using the different scenario backdrops! Have a laugh and get inventive with your poses. Remember that on Wednesdays the museum is closed.

  • Museum of Imagination tickets

42 – Strum along at the Interactive Music Museum

Interactive Music Museum in Málaga

For music lovers, the city’s interactive museum sells itself as one of the coolest things to do in Málaga!

Found tucked away inside the 18th-century Palacio del Conde Navas, the Interactive Music Museum , with no shortage of playable instruments and hands-on experiences that embrace the rhythm, is a great way for younger children (or even adults) to get acquainted with various musical genres and styles.

A notable walk down memory lane too, the Museum showcases a diverse collection of global instruments dating back decades and centuries!

43 – Whizz around the waters on a jet ski

jet ski near Málaga

Not only limited to within the inner city bounds, as you can see the outdoor activities in Málaga are boundless. If adventure is your middle name or you’re a water baby, go jet skiing across the ocean!

A super popular watersport to try, there are many jet skiing operators based around Málaga. Depending on your location, rent a jet ski or pick a guided jet ski tour that suits you best.

Rent out a two-seater for 15 minutes of water time in Marbella, a Yamaha water motorcycle in Mijas, or cruise around the Med in Estepona.

Instead of the usual boat tours, or kayaking expeditions, you can opt to tour around the ocean via jet ski! How epic does that sound?

Lasting between one to two hours, journey from one beach area to the next on water, traveling to Costa del Sol or Gibraltar for example, or make your way to the famous cliffs in Maro.

There are some shorter jet ski tours, such as a 30-minute guided route to Torrox Lighthouse.

  • jet ski in Málaga

44 – Take the controls during helicopter tours

helicopter tours over Málaga

Photographers, honeymoon-goers or travelers looking for a ride of a lifetime, you can’t go wrong with a helicopter tour — unless you suffer from aerophobia!

Departing from the Axarquía Airport, revel in 20 to 30 minutes of air time while still being close enough to the landscapes and sights so you can shoot incredibly clear imagery!

A brief safety instruction is mandatory before the flight. If you prefer a longer stint, go for the one-hour flight option. Leaving the Málaga coastline behind, fly over the Sierra de Almijara mountain range, cross over rural Almáchar and spot all the white village houses on the hill in El Borge.

For these flights, you have the option to copilot the plane.

  • helicopter tours in Málaga

45 – Check out something different at the Russian Museum

Russian Museum, Malaga

While it might seem a little odd to have a Russian museum in the heart of southern Spain, this small collection in the city’s old tobacco factory is well worth an hour or two of your time.

The exhibits are surprisingly fascinating; from traditional costumes to beautiful paintings by famed artists such as Levitan and Repin, you’ll be left with a whole new appreciation for Russian culture and art (a surefire change of pace from the Spanish museums).

All up, nine different themed permanent exhibitions line the halls: old Russian art, 18th century, romanticism, realism, Russian realism, neoprimitivism, avant-garde, Socialist Realism, and art after Stalin) — and with countless film screenings and educational workshops, there’s plenty to be learned here!

  • Russian Museum tickets

46 – Go behind the scenes at Mayan Monkey Mijas chocolate factory

chocolate making experiences in Málaga

Any sweet-toothed travelers out there?

Far from your ordinary chocolate factory, Mayan Monkey Mijas offers visitors the opportunity to learn about chocolate making (and eating, of course) in an interactive environment through its daily and delicious chocolate-making workshops!

To cap it off, you’ll find a good selection of vegan sorbet, exotic cocoa powders, and delectable hot chocolate.

And after stuffing your face full of sweet goodness, thanks to its location in the busy Plaza de la Constitución, there’s plenty to do to pass the time without venturing too far.

  • chocolate making experience in Málaga

47 – Set eyes on the iconic Rock of Gibraltar or cross the legendary straits to discover the wonders of nearby Morocco

Gibraltar and Morocco day trips from Malaga

About as far south as you can go in Europe, it’s hard to miss the British territory of Gibraltar. Defined by its towering rock formation and famous Barbary apes (which are actually tailless monkeys), this area is steeped not only with history but also with an eclectic mix of cultures.

After seeing what Gilbraltar has to offer, why not head even further on another popular day trip to Morocco? As the only African nation with direct access to Europe by land, its closest major city, Tangier , with its whitewashed hillside houses, is a popular bucket-list destination.

Looking to experience more of what Morocco has to offer? The likes of Casablanca, Marrakesh (famed for its bazaar), Fez (a colorful city known for its religious significance), and Rabat can all be visited as part of a hassle-free, pre-organized intercontinental tour!

48 – Experiment using intense Spanish flavors and homegrown ingredients during a cooking class

cooking in Málaga

Learn about the culinary secrets in the rural area of the Montes de Málaga at a cooking class based on an authentic olive and almond farm. Meet your local hosts and chefs who will guide you through the cooking processes and make you feel at ease.

Create a four-course lunch consisting of tapas dishes and a tasty Arroz campesino (countryside rice dish). Sip on sherry as you dive into preparing the dishes and taste the fresh velvety olive oil produced onsite.

Sit out on the terrace under the shade of the pergola vines to enjoy the meal with outstanding views across the mountains and the scents of the pine trees.

  • cooking classes in Málaga

49 – Soak in the view from the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo

Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo, Malaga

Tranquillity reigns supreme at these windswept cliffs, which rise up to a height of 30 meters and offer phenomenal views down onto the turquoise Mediterranean below.

The spectacular spot is located just an hour’s drive from Málaga city center and can be easily accessed by foot or car – but for those looking for something a bit more off-the-beaten-track, Maro offers up several secluded coves, perfect for a kayaking tour , and quiet beaches that are perfect for sunbathing or picnics.

All up, the coastal path runs some 12 kilometers parallel to the cliff, making for a wonderful and mildly strenuous day hike.

50 – Sign up for an offroad buggy tour

bugy tours in Málaga

Experience the stunning mountains of Málaga from a unique perspective aboard an open-topped, four-wheeled buggy!

Explore nearby hillsides like Almunecar or Moclinejo to discover hidden gems and secluded coves usually only visited by locals, or venture into the depths of the foreboding Tajo de Ronda gorge.

For those looking for something more relaxing than adrenaline-inducing, head out on a more sedate buggy safari that explores one of the most beautiful villages in Andalucía: Mijas .

On that note, if you are in the mood for a thrill-inducing off-road adventure, consider epic quad tours instead. Take control of the quad bike yourself, or play passenger as one of the experienced drivers leads the way.

Generally, buggy expeditions are more suitable for families than quad ventures.

  • buggy tours in Málaga

51 – Take dozens of photos during street art tours to Soho and Lagunillas Districts

street art tours in Malaga

As the home of Picasso, this city drips in creativity — naturally. If you’ve got an obsession with taking photos of street art, you can’t go wrong with a designated tour through the Soho and Lagunillas Districts!

Beginning at the CAC Málaga (Center of Contemporary Art of Málaga), venture off to the Soho neighborhood where your expert art guide will show you some of the hottest murals and graffiti around.

Learn about the artists, with both local and international names coloring the walls, buildings and corners like D*Face, ROA and BoaMistura.

Moving from Soho to Lagunillas, the different neighborhoods each have their own unique art scene. Be shown hidden street art spots in Lagunillas, but you can’t help but notice art everywhere! Graffiti and stunning murals sprawl alleyways, staircases and derelict buildings from small to large scale!

  • street art tours in Málaga

52 – Put your brains to the test playing escape rooms

escape room in Málaga

Think you have what it takes to be the next Sherlock Holmes?

Tick an Escape Room in Málaga off your worldwide city-conquering bucket list — if you’ve ever played an escape room and tried to beat a high score, you’ll know this is totally a thing!

Requiring a whole lot of brains, problem-solving skills, and teamwork, escape rooms are super fun, and there are quite a few to choose from in this city, depending on the game you’re after.

Most escape rooms last one hour, however, some escape rooms offer two-hour stints.

Choose your theme/room/mission and begin! Crack one clue in order to move on to the next, unlocking keys one by one.

Pretend to be FBI agents solving a case … Try figuring out the mystery of a missing girl inside Finca Jurado Estate … Or make your great escape from prison!

From magic portals to cursed pirate caves, there’s a themed room for everyone. Games vary in difficulty, as well as age requirements and group numbers.

  • escape rooms in Málaga

53 – Cruise down the refreshing lazy rivers and slip down the slides at some of Malaga’s exciting waterparks

Aquatropic Aqua Park in Málaga

With the sun blaring down from above, what better way to cool down from the heat than a jaunt around one of Málaga’s many waterparks?

From slides and wave pools to lazy rivers and themed areas for kids, there is an abundance of wet-and-wild fun waiting at the city’s long list of family-friendly splash parks:

About 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle, Aqualand Torremolinos is one of the biggest and offers a unique surf simulator. A little more low-key and ideal for families with a range of basic slides, Aquavelis Water Park sits in the nearby town of Vélez-Málaga, making for a great day trip.

Over between the beaches of Velilla and Puerta del Mar, Aquatropic Aqua Park has the claim to fame of being the only saltwater water park in Spain, while Aquamijas in the town of Mijas is a small and simple destination to get away from the big crowds of the others.

Last but not least, CostaWaterPark takes adventure and literally throws it into the ocean with inflatable obstacle courses that the whole family will love!

Remember to bear in mind that the water parks do not remain open during the cooler winter months so remember to check each schedule online!

54 – Admire the sharp teeth of a Nile Crocodile and watch American alligators wallowing at the Crocodile Park

Crocodile Park Torremolinos, Spain

Whether you’re traveling with enthusiastic kids in tow or are just young at heart, looking for a family-friendly activity, Crocodile Park is a day out that’s sure to be an adventure.

From feeding the animals and getting up close with iguanas to exploring a maze of tunnels and caves — this place has it all! Spread across some 16,000 square meters, with plenty of space for the imposing reptiles to play, you’ll be greeted by over 200 different species including Marginatas turtles, colorful veiled chameleons, and the spikey bearded dragon.

Looking for an incredible souvenir? Grab a photo at the feeding zone with a baby croc!

  • Crocodile Park tickets

55 – Take in fantastic views of the Costa del Sol from the Benalmádena Cable Car

Benalmádena cable car tours in Málaga

Jump on the Benalmádena Cable Car and take a 15-minute ride up into the hills for some fresh countryside air. Once at the top of Mount Calamorro mountain, absorb the sweeping vistas which even include the distant Sierra Nevada mountain range as well as the blue sea waters.

In the summer visitors can enjoy an impressive falconry show where you can see eagles and owls in flight.

Explore some of the different hiking trails and enjoy the cooling shade of the Mediterranean pines. The summit also has a panoramic restaurant to get a bite to eat and a large picnic area if you bring your own snacks.

  • Benalmádena Cable Car tickets

56 – Test your endurance when rafting along rivers

rafting near Málaga

Swish, steer, and cruise down the Genil River at rampant speeds when embarking on a whitewater rafting adventure!

Joined by a professional guide who stays on board your boat the whole way; squeal, laugh, and enjoy all the fun as you make your way down the river over the span of three hours, encountering a few rapids along the way.

Swapping a regular inflatable rafting boat, try something different like rafting in pneumatic canoes known as a Canoa-raft; basically an inflatable kayak-style boat that seats two.

Whilst rafting on the Genil River is most popular, there are expeditions that travel down the Guadalfeo River instead.

All safety equipment and boating gear are provided.

  • rafting in Málaga

57 – Step into the exciting and mind-blowing realm of virtual reality technology

VRFun in Málaga

Thanks to the state-of-the-art virtual reality technology you can become a professional racing driver and wizz around a range of different circuits, take an action-packed ride on a virtual roller coaster, or simply immerse yourself in alternative reality such as an underwater marine adventure to gaze at colorful fish and spectacular coral!

Challenge yourself to a virtual reality zombie quest at VRFun or try out the VR Escape rooms to push your problem-solving skills to the limit! Experiment with making 360-degree movements thanks to the completely immersive and innovative state-of-the-art technology.

58 – Move like a monkey along via ferratas

hiking Via Ferrata, Málaga

Somewhere between a climbing gym and an outdoor obstacle course, via ferratas offer the chance to explore the local rock formations with ease!

Along with some traditional climbing, you can enjoy other outdoor activities like zip-lining, tightrope walking, and some wonderfully wobbly journeys on suspended bridges.

Climbing beginners can opt for an excursion to the Tara de Ronda for some spectacular views of the new bridge of Ronda!

Those with a bit more confidence can embark on the via ferrata in the area of El Chorro. Cross over a fun zip line, monkey pass, and Tibetan bridge whilst absorbing the breathtaking views of El Chorro Lake! Or head to the rugged mountainous area of the Caminito del Rey for spellbinding vistas of the Encantada reservoir and the Gaitanes Gorge!

And with all the best safety gear in place, you can really cut loose and enjoy the wildness!

  • via ferrata in Málaga

59 – Feel the raw emotion, the intricate chords of the guitar, and the rapid footwork of the dancers during a live flamenco show

Flamenco Show in Málaga

Undoubtedly one of the more energetic Málaga nightlife activities guaranteed to give you goosebumps with its raw energy and vibrant passion, watching these skilled dancers perform is like stepping into a world where the senses are heightened and time stands still.

Flamenco shows typically begin with a solo guitarist, who will then be joined by singers and dancers in what is an enchanting fusion of music, movement and storytelling.

If you are planning to catch a live show, look no further than the KELIPÉ Theater & Flamenco Art Center , an intimate venue that plays host to one of the finest flamenco agencies in the province of Málaga.

  • flamenco shows in Málaga

60 – Get romantic on a sunset cruise

sunset cruises near Málaga

Whether you’re one half of a romantic couple looking for a cute date night or simply someone who appreciates a spellbinding view, sunset cruises are a magical way to finish the day. As dusk hits and bounces off the historic city skyline, it’s only natural to feel enchanted by the timeless beauty of it all.

What’s more, many companies offer a range of dinner and drinks options during your cruise — that way you can enjoy some quiet time outside with just the two of you or kick back and get a little tipsy before an evening out on the town!

  • sunset boat tours in Málaga

61 – Enter into the exquisite world of elaborate glassware at the Museo del Vidrio y Cristal de Málaga

Museo del Vidrio y Cristal, Málaga

An enchanting museum featuring glass and crystal exhibits, as well as a rare collection of precious minerals, the Museo del Vidrio y Cristal de Málaga is an underrated delight.

Throughout the stately, three-story, 18th-century mansion (a work of art in its own right) you’ll wander across 16 rooms containing more than 1000 glassware artifacts spanning from Phoenician times to the modern day.

Throw in a rare display of antique furniture, exquisite carpets, stained-glass windows and more, and you have an unsurpassable museum experience.

62 – Take a day trip to Gibraltar to pick up some great deals on a shopping tour

day trips to Gibraltar from Málaga

Check out the duty-free stores in Gibraltar and grab some excellent discounts on luxury branded items, perfumes, cosmetics, and electronics.

Stroll down the pedestrianized lively Main Street of Gibraltar where many boutique and shopping outlets are housed in colorful traditional buildings with balconies and wooden shutters.

You will also have time to admire the iconic Gibraltar Rock and stop off at Europa Point to soak in the beautiful ocean panoramas and even the coast of Africa in the distance!

Pause in the historic Grand Casemates Square to watch local artisans perform glass blowing and stock up on some unique and handcrafted souvenirs.

  • shopping tours in Gibraltar

63 – Experience the dazzling Chamber of Secrets show

Chamber of Secrets in Málaga

Nope, not the off-limits Harry Potter room at Hogwarts. In Málaga, we’re talking about a real-world secret: the magical Chamber of Secrets cabaret show! The show takes place in the coastal resort town of Torremolinos, an 18-minute drive south from the city center of Málaga.

A singing and dancing cast of world-class performers has gathered to present a night of music, comedy, magic, mind-reading, illusion, escapes, and puppetry. Prepare to have your mind blown thanks to the conjuring tricks of the multi-award-winning magician Matthew Wright and get ready for a range of special guest appearances!

You’ll be pampered with lager and sangria (or soft drinks for the kids), as well as invited onto the stage to participate in the show!

64 – Obtain magnificent aerial views of the Málaga during a paragliding journey

paragliding near Málaga

Have you always admired birds gliding and swooping so effortlessly through the air? One of the closest things that humans can do to feel like our winged friends flying in the sky is paragliding.

If you have always wanted to try the heart-palpitating outdoor activity, now is your chance in Málaga!

Flights last around 20 minutes, crossing Sierra de las Nieves National Park, over tiny towns, and with Málaga city center in the distance.

For those who haven’t tried paragliding before, there’s no need to worry. All rides are accompanied by a trained professional, and you will be strapped and harnessed in tandem on a glider with one of the pros.

Wear comfortable clothing for this one, as well as closed shoes!

  • paragliding in Málaga

65 – See where the traditional bullfighting action unfolds at the iconic La Malagueta Bullring

La Malagueta Bullring, Malaga

Even though Madrid and Seville are the most renowned cities for bullfighting, the Malagueta Bullring opened in 1876, hosting bullfights and welcoming the most famous Spanish bullfighters since then. Declared both a Historic-Artistic and Cultural Interest Site, the Plaza de Toros de La Malagueta is a stunning 52-meter wide ring in the heart of Málaga.

Throughout the year, multiple events are hosted there, with the most remarkable ones being the Picassian bullfight, held during the Holy Week, where bullfighters dress in costumes inspired by Pablo Picasso; and the annual Bullfighting Fair, during Feria de Málaga (#75) in August. Visitors can also stop by the Museo Taurino, a museum dedicated to the bulls and bullfighting tradition in Spain, exhibiting multiple objects and pictures.

Since 2020, it has also become home to the La Malagueta Cultural Centre , a venue dedicated to promoting the city’s culture and tourism, with 2 exhibition areas, 2 conference halls, and the capacity to accommodate 280 participants.

66 – Sit in the ensemble at Teatro Cervantes de Malaga

Teatro Cervantes de Malaga

There’s no better way to celebrate the art of theater than watching a show at Teatro Cervantes de Malaga , this ornately decorated and historic (dating back to 1870!) space.

Once you’ve found your seat and settled in, marvel at the stunning decor: from golden statues that line the balcony seats, to intricate wooden carvings on every pillar throughout the room — it really is quite something!

Whether you grab a ticket for an English classic like West Side Story or something a little more authentically Spanish, you’re in for one helluva show — just check the website to see what’s on during your trip.

67 – Immerse yourself in nature at Montes de Malaga Natural Park

Montes de Malaga Natural Park

The perfect excuse to get out and about, the Montes de Malaga Natural Park is a relatively undiscovered area of natural beauty that’s well worth exploring, whether that’s on two wheels or simply two feet.

With its rolling hills, lush green meadows, and dramatic mountains as far as the eye can see, the almost 5,000-hectare wide Natural Park is a bucket-list-worthy destination for any nature lover.

  • Montes de Málaga Natural Park tours

68 – Sip on a cocktail at a rooftop bar

best rooftop bar in Malaga

With its year-round mild weather and never-ending sunshine, it’s no wonder Málaga is home to an abundance of rooftop bars. From the swanky venues at luxury hotels to hidden gems scattered across the cityscape, there’s plenty for everyone here no matter your budget.

While a little pricy (by Spanish standards, still affordable for Western standards), the Àtico Bar & Restaurant on the 15th floor of the AC Hotel Malaga Palacio dishes up stunning panoramic views, a lovely open-air terrace, and a refreshing pool ideal for those toasty summer days!

While the infinity pool is reserved for the use of hotel guests, visitors can lap up the breathtaking views while sipping on cocktails and refreshments served at the roof bar of the Lolita Skyview Pool & Lounge . Located on the 8th floor of the Only YOU Hotel Málaga, visitors can gaze out over the harbor and shimmering sea or admire the vistas of the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro castle.

For exquisite views of the tower of the San Juan Church right in the buzzing center of the city, look no further than the Terraza de San Juan . Hang out on one of the comfy sofas on the wooden decked flooring and peek out over the rooftops. The terrace is located on the 5th floor of the boutique Hotel Málaga Premium. Try a tasty Manhattan San Juan cocktail and tuck into their selection of tapas bites and burgers.

69 – Venture inside the 145 million-year-old cave of the Cueva del Tesoro

Cueva del Tesoro, Málaga

A short 20-minute drive away from the center of Málaga, visitors can come across the extraordinary Cueva del Tesoro or Treasure Cave in Rincón de la Victoria!

Make your way through this mysterious underground grotto complex with the help of an audio guide and come face to face with cave art from the Palaeolithic Age! Distinguish depictions of early hunting scenes and daily rituals, transporting yourself back thousands of years!

The Cueva del Tesoro stands out because it is one of the very few underwater caves in the world to have both marine and access from land! Don’t forget to gaze up at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites formations that plaster the ceilings!

  • Cueva del Tesoro tickets

70 – Cheer on the home team at Estádio La Rosaleda

La Rosaleda stadium, Malaga

Sports nuts, listen up! Home of the Malaga CF soccer team — whose fans are as proud and rowdy as any — Estádio La Rosaleda is one of the most beloved stadiums in all of Spain!

Built in 1941, this iconic stadium (which translates to ‘The Rose Garden’) sits adjacent to the Guadalmedina and seats just over 35,000 people; as you can imagine, the energy and volume are second to none.

Besides the matches, the stadium is also open for tours that include locker rooms and a museum dedicated to the history of Málaga’s beloved soccer team!

71 – Get a little loose on a pub crawl

pub crawls in Málaga

When the sun goes down, Málaga comes to life! With its eclectic music scene and impressive party scene, this is one city that knows how to get a crowd going.

Whether you want to dance the night away with locals or enjoy some more relaxed drinks with friends in an atmospheric setting, there’s plenty of options when it comes to nightlife.

For those who like to live life on the edge, Málaga’s pub crawls are an absolute blast! Featuring a whole host of bars and clubs, it’ll take you all over the city in one evening; perfect for celebrating with friends or trying new places out with fellow thirsty strangers.

  • pub crawls in Málaga

72 – Capture the city of Málaga in a different light during a romantic or a rather spooky night tour

night tours in Málaga

Make the most of the sunset and explore the city by night during a fun electric car-guided tour! Drive around the most iconic parts of the city following your guide and pass by the gorgeous Málaga Park, Málga Cathedral, the waterfront, Port, and El Palo beach.

There are also free walking tours that allow you to soak up the atmosphere of the city at dusk. Important iconic sites such as the Roman theater and the Alcazaba have a slightly different feel as the sun begins to go down and the night shadows start to engulf the city!

Learn more about the darker history of the Málaga during a thrilling legends and mysteries of Málaga tour that will give you goosebumps! Listen to secret tales about the atrocities of the Holy Inquisition, the devastation of the plague, gruesome executions, and plenty of murder.

73 – Align your trip with the annual Feria de Agosto

Feria de Agosto, Malaga

If you’re in Málaga in August, make sure to catch one of Spain’s biggest annual fairs. The Feria de Agosto is a ten-nights, nine-day street party that lights up the city: by day, folk music and dancing spills into the streets; by night, head to the purpose-built El Real fairground to find flamenco shows, food stalls, live music, free-flowing drinks, and plenty of other entertainment.

And don’t forget to check out the firework display in the Paseo del Parque (the best viewpoints are the port area or one of the rooftop bars mentioned in #70).

How to get to Málaga?

We’ve all been there: stepping off a plane, jetlagged and grumpy. There’s nothing worse than trying to decipher a totally foreign transport system or haggling with a local taxi driver.

Instead of the hassle and stress, why not go for a pre-arranged airport transfer instead? They’re convenient, they’re fun, and if traveling as a group they are more affordable than multiple transport tickets.

If you are arriving in Málaga on a cruise boat, make sure to check out the list of fun shore excursions in Málaga to maximize your precious time available. Discover the city center on a segway tour, head inland for a fun rural panoramic buggy tour complete with wine tasting, or visit some of the attractive white-washed villages.

Where to stay in Málaga?

No matter if you’re hunting for luxury or satisfied with a no-frills hostel that serves breakfast, there are plenty of places to lay your head in Málaga — from 5-star hotels built in old palaces to family-friendly affordable BNBs and party hostels for the social traveler.

Need some suggestions? For splendid luxury, consider the beachfront Gran Hotel Miramar GL . Sitting just 30 feet from La Malagueta Beach, it’s ideal for the sunseekers. Not to be overlooked, however, the Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro with its own tapas bar and Hotel Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina (built atop a castle) both ooze sophistication.

For something a little more affordable, yet still with all the modern touches you could ask for, any of the Only YOU Hotel Malaga , Sol Malaga Guadalmar by Melia , or Palacio Solecio ought to do the trick.

Pinching pennies? It’s hard to look past the Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel and Urban Jungle Rooftop Hostel for a no-frills, all-fun hostel experience.

  • best hotels in Málaga

Visiting Málaga on a budget?

As you might imagine in the birthplace of Picasso, art and culture are a big deal. And there’s no better way to be immersed in it than by getting out on foot — which is exactly why we recommend taking one (or more!) of Malaga’s famous FREE walks!

With energetic, charismatic, and kind-hearted locals leading the way, you’ll pass by hidden gems, enjoy a cultural exchange over tapas, and learn where the best local spots are to eat, drink, and explore.

A range of free walking tours are available, covering different themes and locations — just remember to leave a tip for your guide.

Where to go next?

The beauty about the South of Spain is cities are within easy reach of one another, suitable for day trips or overnight stays.

Once you’re done exploring the town of Málaga and the dozens of villages in between, check out some of the other destinations nearby, such as Marbella, Cádiz, Granada, Córdoba, and Seville. If you are looking for a general overview of what to see within the different Spanish regions, take a look at our article on the best places to visit in Spain for plenty of travel inspiration and top tourist tips.

Located east of Málaga, Almeria boasts a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. Visit the impressive Alcazaba fortress, the stunning Cathedral of Almeria, and enjoy the outdoors at the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park. Relaxing on the beautiful beach La Playa de los Muertos or taking an excursion to the desert to see where they once filmed spaghetti Westerns are some of the essential things to do in Almería .

There are many other fun things to do in Cádiz — one of the oldest cities in Europe. Venture through its historic old town, join the locals after a siesta down at the playa for sunset swims, or spend hours along the cobbled streets grabbing tapas or shopping tiny boutiques full of charms.

Also located on the coastline, but further down in the south, the drive from Málaga to Cadiz is 2.5 hours.

Granada on the other hand is further up inland and is a bohemian melting pot of cultures and activities. It’s closer to Málaga, only 1.5 hours away. There are many things to do in Granada such as admiring the exquisite tilework and manicured gardens of the UNESCO Alhambra Palace or bargaining in the Alcaicería historic silk market.

Once an important Roman city, Córdoba is past Granada and is a great area for history buffs. Discovering where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella used to reside at the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, strolling through the 12 beautiful patios at the 14th century Palace de Viana, or weaving in and out of the forest of columns at the Mezquita Cathedral are some of the many captivating things to do in Córdoba .

Calling all couples! Honestly, Seville is just pure magic. It has a naturally romantic atmosphere, some of the best tapas, and of course, the iconic UNESCO-listed Royal Alcázar of Seville palace! Travel time between both cities is two hours. There are plenty of romantic things to do in Seville such as assisting a passionate flamenco show or hopping on a horse-drawn carriage ride.

If your time is limited, consider multi-day trips from Málaga. There are even some tours that travel from Spain to Morocco!

Uncover the delights of Morocco and embark on a multi-day trip to Fez and Meknes . Fez is often described as the ‘Athens of Africa’ since it has been a center of trade and learning for centuries. Be blown away by the Medina of Meknes which is designated as UNESCO World Heritage and nicknamed ‘the Versailles of Morocco’ due to its lavish architecture.

If you head North along the coast, past the charming port city of Almería and the region of Murcia, you eventually arrive in Alicante. There are many things to do in Alicante such as hiking up to the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle for breathtaking views or strolling along the gorgeous palm-lined waterfront promenade the Explanada de España.

When in Spain, it is a shame to leave the country without discovering what the buzzing and dynamic capital has to offer. There are plenty of fun things to do in Madrid such as paying homage to extraordinary artists such as Goya, Velazquez, and Murillo in the Prado Museum or tucking into some traditional tapas or churros in the gourmet San Miguel Market.

Final thoughts

From art and culture to the coastline to its rocky mountain ranges with picturesque villages in between; there is much to see and many things to do in Málaga that you might find it a hard time leaving.

Have you traveled to this part of the south of Spain before? What were some of your highlights and favored places to visit? Let us know in the comments.

As always, happy travels!

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Our capitals

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Province of Almeria

  • Almería y su Entorno
  • Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
  • Cabo de Gata y Níjar
  • Costa de Almería
  • Sierra de los Filabres
  • Sierra de María/Los Velez
  • Valle de Almanzora

Province of Cadiz

  • Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
  • Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales
  • Jerez de la Frontera
  • Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema

Province of Cordoba

  • Córdoba y su Entorno
  • Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir
  • La Campiña (Córdoba)
  • Alto Guadiato
  • La Subbética
  • Los Pedroches

Province of Granada

  • Altiplano de Granada
  • Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín
  • Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado
  • La Vega y la Campana
  • El Poniente Granadino
  • Granada y Sierra Nevada
  • La Alpujarra

Province of Huelva

  • Andévalo y Parque Minero
  • Doñana y Entorno
  • Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche
  • Costa de la Luz (Huelva)
  • Huelva y Lugares Colombinos
  • Niebla y el Condado

Province of Jaen

  • Jaén y Entorno
  • Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros
  • Sierra Mágina

Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas

  • Úbeda/Baeza
  • Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén

Province of Malaga

  • Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
  • Antequera y Entorno
  • Costa del Sol Occidental
  • Málaga y Entorno
  • Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
  • Valle del Guadalhorce

Province of Seville

  • El Aljarafe
  • La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir
  • La Vega del Guadalquivir
  • Sevilla y Entorno
  • Sierra Norte

Main attractions

Mezquita de Córdoba

Alcazaba de Málaga

Jaén Cathedral

Cádiz Cathedral

Muelle de las Carabelas

Alcazaba de Almería

Alhambra y Generalife

Andalusia's Natural Treasures

Cerro del Hierro

Duna de Bolonia

Caminito del Rey

Georuta Desierto de Gorafe

La Geoda de Pulpí

Gruta de las Maravillas

Tinto River

Los Alcornocales

Sierra Nevada

Sierras Subbéticas

Torcal de Antequera

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Málaga

Malaga the Beautiful, as the city is known, stands at the centre of the basin of the same name, between the mountains, the River Guadalhorce and the coastal strip which leads to the Axarquia region.

Throughout Malaga's history, its privileged geographic situation has attracted travellers, merchants, settlers and warriors who have left their mark on what is now a cosmopolitan, universal, open, relaxed and hospitable city.

Its places of interest are far too numerous to mention in detail, but here is a brief summary:

In the east is the suburb of El Palo, with its typical fishermen's houses, coves, promenades and "pescaí­to" (small fried fish), which runs into the city's main promenade, the Paseo Maritimo, with its beaches, La Malagueta district, the lighthouse (which has become the symbol of the city) and the port breakwater, which affords a beautiful panoramic view of the city. In the centre, a walk through the Park, home to botanical species from around the world, adapted here thanks to the city's benign climate, takes us to the old centre of Malaga: the imposing Cathedral ; the Nazari Gibralfaro Castle ; La Alcazaba fortress, renovated for public usage; and the Roman Theatre , proof of the city's importance in this era. Further up is the Plaza de la Merced square, site of the house in which the artistic genius Picasso was born. Malaga is also home to a number of interesting churches -St. John's, St. James', St. Domingo's, and the Holy Martyrs-; St. Augustine's Convent and the Episcopal Palace ; and civil buildings such as the Count of Buenavista's Palace and the Consulate House .

A stroll through the city's streets evokes memories of its spectacular Holy Week and grandiose Fair.

To the west and north of modern Malaga, the product of the urban growth experienced in the 1960s, are the Misericordia Beaches, which lead to the mouth of the River Guadalhorce, a protected area visited by thousands of migratory birds.

The outskirts of the city are home to romantic gardens such as La Consula and El Retiro in the suburd of Churriana, and, further north, the Finca de la Concepcion and Hacienda de San Jose country estates, evidence of the economic splendour of Malaga's past.

Overlooking the city are the Malaga Mountains, a Natural Park of extreme beauty and the ideal place from which to enjoy its charms.

In short, a most complete city to which we must add a whole host of tourist facilities, golf courses, water sports and other attractions difficult to evaluate, such as its sunlight, its climate, its cuisine and the wit of its people.

In the 1st century B.C., Estrabon mentions a Phoenician town which stood at the foot of the hill now occupied by the city's fortress, the Alcazaba.

Roman Malaga enjoyed periods of great splendour, as witnessed by its Roman Theatre and other important archaeological remains, as well the statute which declared it a confederate, self-governing city, known as the Lex Flavia Malacitana.

A long period of decadence followed the fall of the Roman Empire. In 571, the city was captured by the Visigoth king Leovigildo.

In 711, Tarik, lieutenant to the governor of the north of Ifriquiya (Africa) Muza ben Nusayr, crossed the straits of Gibraltar (Yebel-Tarik) with almost 10,000 men to begin the conquest of the whole peninsula -a feat which took just five years-, which was achieved more by convincing its inhabitants of the virtues of a new creed and way of life than by using military force. That same year, Malaga was taken by the Moslems, and a new chapter in its history, one which was to span eight centuries, had begun. The area became part of the Nazari kingdom of Granada at the end of the 13th century. During this period, the city flourished, living from the commerce of its agricultural produce -sugar cane, almonds, raisins, figs, saffron and olives, while its silk textiles and fine ceramics also acquired great prestige.

It was during the Moslem occupation that the city walls were built, running from the sea to the Alcazaba fortress, climbing up the left bank of the River Guadalmedina as far as the present-day Calle Alamos street, from where it headed towards Calle Granada, so named because it was here that a gate led out of the city and onto the road from Malaga to Granada; the whole of the walled area was protected by Gibralfaro Castle.

The traveller and geographer Ibn Batuta (1304-1368) wrote of Malaga: "It is one of the most beautiful capital cities in all Al-Andalus. It combines the advantages of inland regions with those of coastal cities. Its figs and almonds, its fine ceramics and gold porcelain are exported to distant locations to the East and to the West".

The 14th century saw the Christians make their first attempts to r

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malaga tourist attractions

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Alcazaba de Málaga

Roman Theatre in Málaga (RTM)

Catedral de Málaga

Catedral de Málaga

Montes de Málaga

Montes de Málaga

Museo Picasso Málaga

Museo Picasso Málaga

Malaga Museum

Malaga Museum

Castillo de Gibralfaro

Castillo de Gibralfaro

Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón

Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón

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The Malaga Fair

The Malaga Fair

Brisa Festival Málaga

Brisa Festival Málaga

Big Sound Festival Málaga

Big Sound Festival Málaga

101 Music Festival Costa del Sol

101 Music Festival Costa del Sol

Oh, See! Fest

Oh, See! Fest

Easter Week in Málaga

Easter Week in Málaga

Festival de Cine de Málaga

Festival de Cine de Málaga

Caminito del Rey desde Sevilla

Caminito del Rey desde Sevilla

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MALAGA

The 13 best things to do in Málaga

From brilliant beaches to cool contemporary galleries, check out the very best things to do in Malaga

A look at the usual lists compiling the best things to do in Málaga makes one thing clear: the capital of the Costa del Sol has long been overlooked in the race for top cultural destinations in Spain . That has slowly been changing since 2003, when the long-awaited Museo Picasso finally opened, kick-starting a cultural resurgence that has led to a whole flew of fancy new museums, including the only outpost of the Centre Pompidou outside of France . Add a couple of cliff-top Moorish castles, a pocket-sized Roman Theatre, a winsome little old town full of tapas bars and quirky boutiques, plus a newly primped-up port and fabulous beaches, and this exuberant little city on Spain 's stretch of the Med can truly boast it’s got the whole package.

Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Málaga right now.

Recommended: the best Airbnbs in Malaga Recommended: the best hotels in Malaga

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Best things to do in Malaga

Alcazaba and Gibralfaro

1.  Alcazaba and Gibralfaro

What is it? The clifftop Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba fortress and royal residence both date from the eleventh century and are linked by a stunning battlement walk. The Alcazaba is all delicate Moorish gardens and archways, while the Gibralfaro exudes military might.

Why go? It’s a hot and sweaty scramble uphill (you could take the lift, but where’s the fun in that?) to the Alcazaba, but you can dawdle under Moorish arches and soak up the views from the terraces. From the Gibralfaro, the views are even more spectacular.

Museo Picasso

2.  Museo Picasso

What is it? Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga, and his childhood home is full of family photos and personal items. Follow it up with a visit to the Museo Picasso, which, despite a smallish collection, reveals the artist’s extraordinary versatility, and hosts excellent temporary exhibitions.

Why go? One of the greatest twentieth-century artists, Picasso is Malaga’s most famous son (tied with Antonio Banderas). Get an insight into his early life at his birthplace, and admire the range of his works in the excellent Museo Picasso (which has a charming garden café).

Centre Pompidou Málaga

3.  Centre Pompidou Málaga

What is it? You can’t turn around without bumping into another art museum in Malaga these days. The Pompidou Centre’s seaside outpost (and only branch outside France) occupies a multi-coloured cube overlooking the port.

Why go? The building already existed before Daniel Buren transformed it into a kaleidoscope of colour, perfect for displaying the Pompidou’s modern and contemporary masterworks from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. (The nearby Café de Paris, French only in name, is a good spot for lunch.)

Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga

4.  Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga

What is it? Part of the vast art collection of former Miss Spain and billionaire art collector Carmen ‘Tita’ Thyssen is on display at this elegant sixteenth-century palace. The focus is on nineteenth and early-twentieth-century Spanish paintings, supplemented with some Old Masters, including a superb portrait by Zurbarán.

Why go? There are some charming depictions of festivals, bullfights and other scenes of traditional life in the nineteenth-century collection, while, among the early twentieth-century art, Sorolla’s Impressionist beach scenes stand out. Also check out Mercedes Lasarte’s bubblegum pink portrait of Carmen Thyssen.

Cine Abierto

5.  Cine Abierto

What is it? What could be nicer on a summer’s night than hanging out on the beach and watching a movie? The Cine Abierto, part of the Festival de Málaga, has a crowd-pleasing programme (blockbusters, kids’ films, Spanish movies), screened in parks and beaches across the city.

Why go? If you’ve got some Spanish (films are either Spanish or dubbed), this outdoor cinema event is a great way to catch some top films from Spain. Bring a picnic, a bottle of chilled wine, and relax under the stars!

Teatro Romano

6.  Teatro Romano

What is it? This pocket-sized first-century Roman theatre was discovered in the 1950s and has been thoroughly restored. Beautifully set on a hillside, with the walls of the Alcazaba zigzagging behind it, it’s a gorgeous spot to catch one of the summer performances held here.

Why go? A rare survivor from Roman Malaga, this small and perfectly formed theatre was in use until the third century AD. The sleek little interpretation centre offers a glimpse into life under the Romans.

Centro de Arte Contemporáneo

7.  Centro de Arte Contemporáneo

What is it? Malaga’s centre for contemporary art is full of twentieth and twenty-first-century art that will delight serious culture buffs. It’s the lynchpin of the Malaga Soho neighbourhood, which is full of Insta-friendly graffiti, shops and bars.

Why go? Along with the Centre Pompidou, this is one of Malaga’s major hubs for contemporary art and culture. Get your culture kicks inside, then stroll around the nearby Soho neighbourhood to check out the street art, vintage markets and cafés (our favourite is the Café de Estraperlo).

8.  Alcazaba Premium Hostel Chill-out Terrace

What is it? This funky, colourful hostel has a badly kept secret: its fabulous roof terrace. Perfect for sunset cocktails, you can soak up the views over the old city’s rooftops to the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro castles.

Why go? There are lots of rooftop hotel bars in this city, but this one has the edge for its relaxed, friendly vibe and excellent cocktails. Plus, the views of the Alcazaba can’t be beaten. It’s dinky, so get there early to be sure of a prime spot on one of the lounge beds.

Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción

9.  Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción

What is it? Escape the hustle and bustle in the city centre and enjoy a quiet stroll along shady paths here, pausing in the little pavilions and bowers for a breather. These cool and elegant botanic gardens are spread around a nineteenth-century villa, and there’s always something gorgeous in bloom.

Why go? These lovely gardens are slightly run-down – and all the more romantic for it. Pack a picnic, hop on the bus, and cool off among the trees, pools and fountains. Look out for the stunning wrought-iron bower, densely covered with wisteria in early spring.

Playa Peñón de la Cueva

10.  Playa Peñón de la Cueva

What is it? Malaga has lots of beaches – 16, in fact – which all have the same rather gritty, dark sand, but are mostly clean and well equipped. La Malagueta and Pedregalejo are the busiest, but you should make for the little Peñón de la Cueva beach if you’re looking for some hippy, offbeat charm.

Why go? This beach, one of Malaga’s smallest, is easily one of the prettiest. A double arc of sand, punctuated by a craggy rock in the middle, it packs out in summer thanks to the (public) barbecues. But get there very early or later on, and you’ll enjoy blissful peace.

El Tintero

11.  El Tintero

What is it? At this boisterous, ear-splittingly noisy chiringuito (beach restaurant), waiters swerve confidently among the packed tables shouting out what they’re bringing fresh from the kitchen. Don’t expect anything fancy – there are paper tablecloths and plastic cutlery – but the seafood is as fresh as it gets.

Why go? Probably the most famous restaurant in town, El Tintero offers a superb beachfront location, a big, breezy terrace, and a raucous, fun atmosphere. Just stick up your hand if you want to claim a platter of pescaíto frito (small fried fish) or freshly barbecued sardines.

Uvedoble Taberna

12.  Uvedoble Taberna

What is it? This modern tavern by the cathedral is full of blonde wood and tasteful modern art. Pull up a stool at the bar if you can’t get a covetable spot on the terrace and tuck into some of the freshest, most imaginative contemporary tapas in town.

Why go? You won’t want to miss out on food this original, so get there early to beat the crowds. The delectable little bites change seasonally but often include toasted squid ink noodles with tiny squid, swordfish ceviche, or duck magret with mango.

13.  Kir

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13 best things to do in Málaga (with map)

13 best things to do in Málaga (with map)

Written by Maartje

Málaga is the perfect destination in southern Spain to combine a city trip with a beach trip! Andalusia in the south of Spain is known for its beautiful sandy beach and its wonderful historic cities. If you want to combine the two, Málaga should be your first choice. The coastal town is packed with interesting sights, historic buildings, hip hotspots, world-class museums and charming streets. We already visited this city twice and loved it the second time even better than the first. This blog will help you find out about the best things to do in Málaga, the best neighborhoods to stay and the best places for food and drinks.

Read more: all our blog posts about Andalusia .

Malaga Cathedral

Where is Málaga and how to get there?

Málaga is located in the south of Spain, in the Andalusia region. It is an important city on the Costa del Sol, the southern Spanish coast. Málaga has its own international airport with international flights for competitive prices, making this one of the best cities to start a trip around Andalusia.

The well-known cities of Seville, Granada and Córdoba are located in the same region as Málaga and are often combined with Málaga on a road trip around Andalusia . You can easily reach most destinations in Andalusia by public transport, but a rental car is a much better and faster option. You can then pick a rental car up directly at the airport in Málaga, starting your road trip right after landing.

Parking in Málaga is not always easy. Most of the old town is car-free – only residents can enter the old town by car – and the rest is paid parking. We recommend you to look for parking garages, as they usually have reasonable prices. There is only one  free parking spot  we found and it is located directly along the Parque de Málaga. But there are only few spaces and most of them are usually taken, so it can be difficult to find a spot. There are no (paid) official motorhome or campervan locations in Málaga.

Malaga street art

Where to stay in Malaga

The sights of Málaga are not all huddled together, so it is wise to consider in which area of the city you want to stay. Although all attractions are within walking distance, it is good to determine what you find important for your city trip to Málaga. These are the three different neighborhoods you can choose from:

  • The Centro Historico with the most museums and places of interest
  • The hip Soho with hotspots for good food and drinks, street art and a hip atmosphere
  • The Malagueta district with the harbor and the beach

The three districts are glued together, so you can easily visit all three during your trip.

If you are looking for a hostel instead of a hotel, you’ll have an easy choice, as you’ll simply have to stay in the Centro Historico. Remarkably, there are not a lot of hostels in Málaga – and most lack good reviews – and the best options are in the old town. Hostels in Malaga with good reviews are The Urban Jungle Hostel and Hostal Vidamia .

The best hotels to stay in Málaga:

  • Room Mate Valeria on the corner of Soho overlooking the harbour. The roof terrace has lovely lounge beds and a view over the harbor and the city.
  • Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro on the Gibralfaro hill with phenomenal views. The luxury hotel is one of the special paradors in the most beautiful locations and in the most beautiful buildings in Spain.
  • Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano in the car-free historic center. It is quite new and only opened its doors in 2016. All rooms have the same luxurious and clean appearance.
  • NONO Charming Stay in Soho with nice studios and apartments. Did you know that the rooms are styled by the Dutch stylist duo Jeroen Schless and Frens Witte?
  • Mariposa Hotel in Soho with a sunny roof terrace and art deco-style rooms.
  • Palacete de Alamos in the Centro Historico for luxury rooms and a top breakfast, which is one of Málaga’s top-rated hotels on Booking.com.

Malaga Cathedral

Tourist map of Málaga in Spain

Top things to do: 13 Málaga must-see attractions

#1 the picasso museum & the other (free) museums of málaga.

Did you know that Málaga is one of Europe’s best museum cities? This destination in Andalusia is full of great and even world-class museums. Whether you are a museum lover or not, it is highly recommended to plan in some time to visit one or two.

The main attraction of Málaga is the Picasso Museum . The famous painter was born in Málaga. His birthplace is also turned into a second Picasso-centred museum and even the church where he was baptized mentions this on its facade. A city so proud of its most famous resident, is also home to a museum dedicated to his works of art. That’s the well-known Picasso Museum. It is filled with works by the Picasso family itself, so all artworks have never been sold and have always remained in the family. The is housed in a historic palace in the historic center. Although Picasso’s well-known masterpieces are not displayed here, the museum is certainly fun to visit.

Our top tip for Málaga: most museums are free to visit on Sundays. Including the Picasso Museum that can be visited for free during the last two hours before opening time. The same goes for other museums, including the Alcazaba and Center de Pompidou. It’s different for each museum what the exact free visiting times are. Sometimes all afternoon and sometimes the last opening hours. So we recommend you to check this online in advance and also check the exact opening hours during that season. At the Museo Picasso, the free entrance is linked to the closing time and that is different in high and low season.

Other great museums that are always free to visit are the CAC for contemporary art and the Museum of Malaga about the history of the city, including historical paintings. Other major museums in the city are the Carmen Thyssen Museum, the Museo de Málaga, Center de Pompidou and the Russian Museum of Art. So there is plenty to do in Málaga for museum and art lovers!

Picasso Museum Malaga

#2 The historic center of Málaga

As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Málaga’s historic center consists of beautiful streets and monuments. Unfortunately, there are also many large shopping streets with a less historic appearance, but apart from that, the charming historic streets are also not to be missed. The city center is almost entirely pedestrianized, making Málaga one of the largest car-free zones in Europe.

Wandering through the old town is one of the best things to do in Málaga. Don’t miss Plaza de la Constitucion and the streets nearby. The square was given that name when the Spanish Constitution was enacted. On the floor at the edge of the square you see plates with the front pages of the major Spanish newspapers bringing this news. On that same spot is also a beautiful gate, which was once the entrance to a large monastery. The streets behind it are still exactly as they were in the monastery complex back then.

Another street that you can’t miss is the wide Calle Marques de Larios . The street is named after the wealthy man who had it built as a connection between the harbor and the old town. There is a statue of him at the end to honor him. Why is this street one of Málaga’s landmarks? And the most famous street in town? In winter this street is transformed twice – around Christmas and Carnival – into a paradise of lights with new decorations every year. We visited the city in February around Carnival time and were amazed when we walked the Calle Marqués de Larios in the evening.

Calle Marques de Larios

#3 La Manquita, the cathedral of Málaga

If you thinkthe Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is the only Spanish church under construction for over a hundred years, you’ve never seen Málaga Cathedral. The construction of this cathedral started in the sixteenth century and is still not completed.

Over the centuries, money problems were always the reason for the project to be halted. When money was available again, construction continued, and then of course in the new architectural style of that moment. The result is a church that is still unfinished and with many different architectural styles .

We were told that the construction will never be fully completed. The cathedral now has a clearly recognizable tower of 84 meters high. The other tower is half this size though it was supposed to be similar to its counterpart. This unfinished tower has now become an important part of the cathedral’s history, so it was decided to leave it this way and never finish it. The cathedral is therefore La Manquita called, which translates to ‘the one-armed woman’. There is one part that will be completed though. The Roof! The beautiful vaulted roof was once replaced by a temporary flat roof. That roof is still there and is leaking with each rain shower.

The history of money shortages is what makes the church so beautiful. The baroque facade on the side of the bishop’s palace is very impressive, but other sides of the church have other unique styles. If you continue to walk around the enormous cathedral, you will come across Renaissance and even Gothic elements. And if we dive even further back in time: the church was once a mosque . After the expulsion of the Moors by the Catholics, the mosque was reused as a church. Later it was later replaced by the much larger cathedral we know now, but you can still see parts of the old mosque walls.

You can admire the cathedral from the outside, but we also recommend you to go inside. Tickets cost € 6, but on working days you visit the church for free early in the morning during Mass. Admire the carvings in the many chapels and marvel at the enormous organ from 1871.

Malaga Cathedral

#4 The Alcazaba and the Roman Theater

Another sight not to miss are the  Alcazaba castle and Roman Theater  right next to each other. They almost seem to belong together, but they really come from very different times.

The Alcazaba is the old Moorish Castle that once stood at the highest point within the old city walls. This hill was located directly on the sea, but over time a piece of land has been reclaimed and you can now find the city park and the Palmeral de Las Sorpresas promenade between the castle hill and the sea. The name Alcazaba is derived from a Moorish term for citadel, because the fortress once housed a true mini-city between the ninth and eleventh centuries. During a visit you walk through a maze of streets, buildings, old palaces and gardens. You will probably notice many Moorish influences, but also some Roman details. Those elements have been reused from the Roman theatre. 

That theater is located on the slope of the hill on which the Alcazaba is built. For residents of Málaga, the theater is a fairly new attraction. It was only fully excavated in the 1990s. Roman remains had already been found during earlier construction work on this hill. But it was only decades later that it was decided to tear down the buildings on the hill and excavate the theater. The Teatro Romano dates back to the time when the Romans controlled southern Spain. The theater was still used in Moorish times and even today performances are still given.

Directly in front of the Roman theater is a glass pyramid stand. It allows you to peek under the square, where you can see the remains of a Roman fish factory. This is where ‘garum’ was made, which is a kind of strong-smelling fish sauce. Everywhere in Andalusia ‘garum’ was made, but each location used its own, local fish species. In Málaga it was made from sardines and anchovies.

Entry to the Moorish fortress costs just €3.50 (or €5.50 for a combination ticket with Gibralfaro Castle). On Sundays the fort is free to visit in the afternoon. You can admire the Teatro Romano from the street, but you can also visit it up close for free.

Teatro Romano in Malaga

#5 The beaches of Málaga

In addition to a old town, the city of Málaga also has a city beach, which makes this a unique city trip destination. Just behind the Muelle Uno pier with its restaurants and terraces, is the Praia de la Malagueta. There are sunbeds, umbrellas, beach showers and beach tents to make your beach visit perfect. It is not our favorite Málaga beach. The greyish sand doesn’t make this the most idyllic place to enjoy the sun. During some seasons, it is also partly in the shade in the afternoon due to the high-rise buildings.

If you walk a little further, you will come to the beach La Caleta and even further you will find a lovely beach in the former fishing village of Pedregalejo. Other beaches along this coastal strip are El Palo and El Peñon, but then you are quite far from the Málaga old town.

What few people know is that you can also find beaches to the west of the old town. The first beach from the city center in that direction is Playa San Andres and then Playa de la Misericordia, which is popular with young families for its play area.

Praia de la Malagueta

#6 The harbor and the Muelle Uno promenade

The history of the city revolves almost entirely around the important economic position of the port. For centuries Málaga has been an important and strategic port city in the Mediterranean region.

Directly in front of the old town is the new port, where large cruise ships dock. Along the harbor is the Palmeral de Las Sorpresas promenade lined with palm trees and an undulating white pergola. Right next to the promenade is the Muelle Uno , one of Málaga’s most popular attractions. You might also notice a remarkable colored cube where the promenade ends and the Muelle Uno starts. It is part of the Center de Pompidou museum, an annex of the famous museum in Paris.

The Muelle Uno is a pier with the modern harbor on the right and a long line of shops and restaurants on the left. It is not the place for a local experience, as everything is aimed at tourists. But that shouldn’t spoil the fun, as a walk on the pier is definitely one of the top things to do in Málaga. Along the way you’ll pass an old chapel, which contrasts beautifully with the modern shops at the pier. At the end is a white lighthouse. On the other side of the pier and the lighthouse you will find the nearest sandy beach of Málaga, the Praia de la Malagueta.

Muelle Uno in Malaga

#7 The covered market hall Mercado Atarazanas

One of the most beautiful sights in Málaga is the Mercado Atarazanas. The covered market hall is located in the old town and is still used by the locals. Although many tourists also come here, it still feels very authentic.

The market hall is located in a beautiful hall of cast iron . It was built between 1876 and 1879, although the design includes an even older city gate. This horseshoe-shaped gate has a Moorish feel and Moorish influences are also reflected in the cast iron design. It is built in neo-Mudejar style, which is a modern version of the Moorish and Christian mix that emerged in the Middle Ages.

The name is also a nod to the Moorish times of Málaga. Atarazanas means shipyard in Moors, because there used to be a shipyard here. The water then came to this spot in the city. All the area between the market hall and the sea is man-made. An old city wall stood on the site of the market hall. And that horseshoe-shaped gate ? That was the city gate then.

The Mercado Atarazanas consists of three linked halls. One for meat, one for fish and one for fruit and vegetables. The fish market hall is in the middle, which is the prettiest part of the market. It has a huge stained glass window depicting the history of the city. On Mondays, this middle section is empty and only the side halls are full of liveliness. As the fisherman don’t work on Sundays, there is nothing to sell on Mondays. The market hall also has some tapas bars, where you can enjoy tapas with a drink at one of the high tables around lunchtime.

Mercado Atarazanas in Malaga

#8 Malaga’s street art

One of the unexpected highlights of Málaga is the special street art that you can find around the city. Not in the historic center, but in what were once dilapidated neighborhoods. By enlivening the street scene with graffiti and murals, the neighborhoods were given a boost. They now no longer are the bad areas of Málaga, but draw in many visitors.

You can find the most street art in two districts of Málaga: Soho near the harbor and Lagunillas north of the old town. Soho was the first of the two to be transformed into a street art mecca. It is now a hip neighborhood known for its artistic atmosphere. There are hip hotspots, a museum for contemporary art (the CAC) and lots of street art. Since 2013, as part of the Málaga Arte Urbano Soho (MAUS) project, international artists have been invited to enjoy themselves on the streets of Soho. The Belgian ROA came here to paint his famous black and white animals on the walls, and you can admire enormous murals on an apartment building behind the CAC. You can use an online street art map from MAUS to find the best works.

Lagunillas has received less international attention and mainly has artworks of more local artists here. It is for sure the most colorful district of Málaga and it has much more street art than Soho. Stroll down Calle Lagunillas and visit as many side streets as you can. You will for sure come across many works.

Malaga street art

#9 Gibralfaro Castle and its viewpoint

Not far from the Moorish fortress of Alcazaba is another castle, the Gibralfaro Castle on Gibralfaro Hill. The Alcazaba was not enough to defend the city and the important port, so in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries a second castle was constructed in an even more strategic position. In the event of a siege, the important inhabitants of the Moorish fortress could seek safety in Gibralfaro Castle through a defensive wall over the mountainside. You can still see those walls from the harbor.

You make a similar climb if you want to visit the castle these days. A path leads up the mountain from the historic center to the top. Our secret tip for Málaga: if you don’t want to make that climb, it’s good to know that there is a road on the other side and that the Hop On Hop Off bus stops here. You can visit the inside of the castle, though we didn’t as we hadn’t heard very good stories about it. The most important reason to climb up to the castle is for the view .

On the way up – or down – you will pass one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Málaga. You have an unprecedented beautiful view over the bullring, the harbor, the promenade, the city park, the Alcazaba and the old town. Especially during sunset the view is phenomenally beautiful.

Do you like that view? You can also fall asleep with it! On the hill is one of the best luxury hotels in Málaga, Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro . It may not be for everyone’s budget to book a stay here, but if you do have the budget, you’ll get to stay in the best location in Málaga. The term ‘parador’ is more common in Spain. It are a kind of state hotel located in a beautiful historical monument or in an exceptional location. There are almost a hundred of them around Spain.

Gibralfaro Viewpoint in Malaga

#10 The bullring Plaza de Toros La Malagueta

We are quite strongly against bullfighting and hate that it is still quite popular in Andalusia, but that does not alter the fact that there are beautiful bullfighting arenas scattered throughout the region. This is also the case in Málaga, where you can visit the Plaza de Toros La Malagueta on the edge of the historic center.

The round building was built in the nineteenth century for bullfights and is used for that purpose to this day throughout the summer months. At the time of its construction, the neo-Mudejar style was very popular. It was a new twist on the Medieval mix of Moorish and Christian elements. You will clearly spot this unique building style at the arena.

Since the arena is located at the foot of the Gibralfaro mountain, you have a beautiful view of this arena from the viewpoint on the mountain. In fact, you can see the arena best from there, as you can’t visit the arena outside of the bullfights. You can enter part of the arena (for free) though, as there are temporary exhibitions indoors. In between the art, you can peek into the arena, but you can’t really see much of it.

Plaza de Toros La Malagueta

#11 The hip Soho district

Soho – also called Zoho – is one of the upcoming neighborhoods of Málaga. The district is located southwest of the old town, sandwiched between the historic center and the new harbour.

What once started as a deprived neighborhood is now one of the best parts of the city. It is referred to as the cultural and artsy hub of Málaga because of its galleries and the colorful street art in the streets. Scattered throughout the neighborhood are many organic shops and hip hotspots, attracting many young people to the area.

Some of our favorites hotspots are in Soho. You can enjoy speciality beers at La Fábrica, a local brewery with its own speciality beer. Picnic has a spacious terrace and serves many vegetarian options, as well as burgers and tasty beers. For coffee you have to be at Santa Coffee Soho and MIMO Vegan Bistro serves vegan food with a Japanese twist. We often heard Señor Lobo Café as a tip for Soho, but unfortunately this hotspot is closed permanently.

One of the best places to visit in Soho is the CAC , the museum of contemporary art. We are big fans of contemporary and modern art and we also loved this museum. The contemporary art museum is free to visit and had many unique paintings and art by new artists on display when we visited.

Do you want book your stay in Soho? We can recommend the trendy Room Mate Valeria overlooking the harbor. The roof terrace has lovely lounge beds and a view over the harbor and the city. You can also have a drink there in the afternoon without being a hotel guest. Another great option is NONO Charming Stay with lovely studios and apartments or Mariposa Hotel with a sunny roof terrace and art deco-style rooms.

Santa Coffee in Malaga

#12 The Parque de Málaga and the Botanical Gardens

For those who need a rest during their city trip to Málaga, it is good to know that you can also find some green oases in this city. Right next to the historic center is the city park Parque de Málaga. Sandwiched between the old town and the new port, this long green strip makes a lovely resting point.

The Parque de Málaga – also called Paseo de Málaga – is an elongated city park of 800 meters long. Traffic rushes along the busy avenues, but in between is a peaceful area. In the warm months it is wonderful to visit the park to escape the summer heat, as it is mainly shaded by palm and banana trees. There are many exotic plants, as well as statues of local celebrities and azulejos tiles depicting the coats of arms of localities in the region.

More outside the center is the Jardin Botanico La Concepcion . It has statues, waterfalls, a pavilion, ponds and especially many exotic plant species. The botanical garden was created when a marquis bought several gardens in the nineteenth century to combine them into a large garden park. In the 1990s, the gardens came into the hands of the municipality and were opened to the public. The park has several walking routes, so you can certainly enjoy yourself here for an afternoon.

Malaga Park

#13 Restaurants in Málaga: local food, hip coffee spots and vegan hotspots

As a popular destination in Spain, Málaga has plenty of choices for good restaurants. We prefer vegetarian and vegan restaurants, so we loved discovering the many great options for vegetarian food in Málaga. And Sebastiaan’s coffee hobby? He had absolutely nothing to complain. Besides trendy hotspots, Málaga also has many authentic restaurants to try the local cuisine. We received many great restaurant tips from a local and we will share them with you to find the best local experience.

Where to go for coffee, brunch and breakfast in Málaga :

  • Next Level Specialty Coffee: a small coffee shop in a corner building, where it is very small inside but the terrace offers enough space to slowly wake up with your coffee. Breakfast is also on the menu.
  • El Último Mono Juice & Coffee: this spot for coffee, juices and cake is located in an alley next to a major shopping street. Unfortunately, there is no extensive food menu, but it has sockets and wifi for the digital nomads.
  • Santa Coffee Soho and Centro: in both the Soho district and in the center you can find the popular Santa Coffee. Make sure to have the crepes for breakfast.
  • Mia Coffee House: when there’s a line at a coffee shop, you know the coffee has to be really good. This little place is very popular with locals. And with Sebastian.
  • Recyclo Bike Café: cycling and breakfast are a popular combination that you can find in almost every city. Also in Málaga, where you can go to Recyclo for pancakes and DIY sandwiches.
  • Brunchit: if you want to have breakfast at this popular spot, you usually have to book a table. Or find a table on the terrace, where you can wake up with your pancakes or avocado toast while watching people strolling by.
  • Dulces Dreams: this hostel doesn’t just serve breakfast to its hostel guests, but is open for all visitors. The menu has options such as club sandwiches and açai bowls.

Where to go for local food in Málaga :

  • Casa Aranda: you could easily pass this small insignificant place, but it is very popular among locals for breakfast with churros. When locals want to feast on this sweet treat for breakfast at the weekend, they all come here. Casa Aranda has been serving the popular churros since 1932. They only cost 50 cents each and you pay € 1.95 for a cup of chocolate to dip them in like the locals do.
  • El Pimpi: if Antonio Banderas owns shares in a business, you know that not only locals but also a lot of tourists come there. Yet, as the oldest bodega in Málaga, El Pimpi has remained a typical Spanish tapas bar. It has a huge terrace, but be sure to take a look inside as well.
  • Mercado Altrazanas: at this attraction you can not only take beautiful pictures and go grocery shopping, but also sit down at one of the tables outside the market hall for a local lunch with tapas and a drink.
  • Casa Lola: this tapas spot is so popular with locals that you usually have to wait for a while to get a table. You can eat delicious tapas and pinxtos at Casa Lola for a good price.

Where to go for for lunch and dinner in Málaga :

  • Noviembre Healthy Food: in the north of the old town you will find this healthy hotspot with dishes like burgers, salads, sandwiches, pancakes and more.
  • BYOKO: we especially recommend this hotspot for brunch and lunch. The menu has dishes such as buddha bowls, salads, burgers and galettes.
  • MIMO Vegan Bistro: in the popular Soho district, MIMO is the place to be for dishes with an Asian twist. From sushi to Japanese sandwiches to ramen. But burgers and pies are also on the menu.
  • Picnic Soho: this trendy place has a large terrace and a menu with burgers, pulled pork, nachos, tapas and beers.
  • La Fábrica: this is the place to be in the evening for burgers and spare ribs, but especially for locally brewed beer. This local brewery is from the well-known Cruzcampo brand and brews its own specialty beer here. For Spanish standards, La Fábrica is a bit pricey with main courses for € 16.

Santa Coffee in Malaga

Best things to do near Málaga: 5 best day trips

#1 the pueblos blancos of andalusia.

Andalusia is known for its picturesque white-washed villages – called pueblos blancos in Spanish – and visiting one or two should definitely be on your Spanish bucket list. Many of them have become popular tourist attractions because of their photogenic and charming cityscape and several of those are close to Málaga. We visited dozens of those iconic pueblo blancos and highly recommend visiting a few on a day trip from Málaga.

Ronda is perhaps the most famous white village in Andalusia. It is built on a rocky plateau, or actually two plateaus separated by a deep gorge. An impressive bridge has been built across that gorge and is one of the most iconic monuments of southern Spain. Although the town has few major attractions, it is wonderful to wander through the old streets with white houses. Ronda is well worth a visit, if you’re curious about the region’s most visited village.

The pueblo blanco Ojén is a lot less known and therefore has a more authentic atmosphere. Ojén is located in the mountains above Marbella and is a somewhat cooler destination in the Costa del Sol. Nearby you can also enjoy a nice walk in the Refugio de Juanar. For example, you can take a short hike to a mountain top for a phenomenal view over Marbella and the coast.

One of the more off the beaten track, but equally charming villages is Montejaque . The pueblo blanco is located on the edge of the Sierra de Grazalema nature reserve and has a beautiful location in the mountains. Only a few tourists visit the village, so you can still enjoy the authentic Spanish village life. On Thursdays there is a small market, on weekends the terraces are full of locals and every street has a cozy atmosphere. This picturesque village is nestled in the mountains, so be sure to visit the two viewpoints for the most beautiful views of Montejaque!

Another highlight is Setenil de las Bodegas , one of the more popular villages in southern Spain. This village has the typical white-washed houses, historic atmosphere and picturesque streets. But it also has a unique and stunning location! In the mountainous environment, which is sweltering in the summer, the residents of Setenil came up with the perfect solution: houses in and against the mountain walls. They created a unique cave house village, located in a gorge between two mountain sides. Setenil de las Bodegas still has many of those cave houses and mountainside houses, making this one of the more unique pueblo blancos to visit on a day trip from Málaga.

Ronda Spain

#2 The Caminito Del Rey Walk

A special highlight in Andalusia is the Caminito del Rey, about half an hour’s drive from Málaga. This unique mountain walk along steep cliffs offers you spectacular views during a short hike of 7.5 kilometers that is suitable for almost every age and condition.

The route is a hundred years old and was once built between two hydroelectric power stations. When the path was no longer used, it fell into disrepair and the path continued to crumble along the cliffs. What remained was one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. It was forbidden to go here, but that didn’t stop the real daredevils, resulting in a number of deaths. The path has now been restored and is open to the public. It is now 100% safe to do this walk and we highly recommend to go here on a day trip from Málaga.

road trip southern spain | caminito del rey andalusia

#3 The Castillo Monumento Colomares

This fairytale castle is a somewhat odd tourist attraction. The castle is located on the Costa del Sol with sea views, not far from Málaga. Or castle? It’s more of a fantasy building . Or a monument.

It was built between 1987 and 1994 in honor of the famous explorer Columbus. The eccentric owner built the castle all by himself and incorporated all kinds of references to Columbus and his discovery of America in the strange building. All kinds of architectural styles are reflected in the castle. There are stained glass windows, a pagoda, the bow of a ship, fairytale towers and Gothic decorations. The Castillo Monumento Colomares is therefore an extremely odd and out of place, but also beautiful creation .

The entrance is only € 2.50. The castle is not particularly large and you cannot visit it from the inside, so a short visit should be enough to enjoy this attraction. It is less than half an hour’s drive from Málaga.

Castillo Monumento Colomares

#4 El Torcal de Antequera

Less than an hour north of Málaga is one of the most beautiful pieces of nature in Andalusia. The Natural Park El Torcal de Antequera combines beautiful mountains with special rock formations . You can enjoy beautiful walks and several hiking routes have been set out through the park.

The unique limestone formations make El Torcal a special mountain area. You can simply visit the two viewpoints – they are also accessible for wheelchairs and prams – near the visitor center. But we recommend you to make one of the three hikes in the park. The green route is 1.5 kilometers long, the yellow route is 3 kilometers and the orange route is 3.6 kilometers. The orange one is a linear route, so you will have to walk back the same distance.

We would recommend the yellow route which took us about 2 hours though the route is only 3 kilometers. The short hike involves a lot of scrambling over rocks and passing narrow gorges, though we wouldn’t say this hike is hard. We probably mainly took this long because of the many stops to take in the beautiful views and observe the Spanish ibex from up close. This short hike is definitely one of the highlights of Andalusia and we highly recommend it for a day trip from Málaga.

El Torcal de Antequera

#5 Nerja and Frigiliana

Nerja and Frigiliana are beautiful towns on the Costa del Sol, which you can visit on a day trip from Málaga. The towns are close to each other and with only a 50-minute drive from Málaga, both are definitely worth visiting as a day trip.

Nerja is located east of Málaga on the Spanish coast. It is a touristy destinations with a few charming streets, but above all a lot of shops and tourists. The main attraction of Nerja is the Balcon de Europa viewpoint. From there you have beautiful views over the mountains, beaches and sea around Nerja. This viewpoint is a popular spot in Nerja, but we didn’t find it particularly spectacular. We especially liked wandering through the cozy streets and the many sunny terraces. Also highly recommended is the special aqueduct Acueducte de Aguila, which is located just outside the city. The 40-meter high aqueduct was built more than a hundred years ago to transport water to the old sugar factory and is still a sight to behold.

Frigiliana is a small and charming mountain village , just 10 kilometers north of Nerja in the mountains. It is one of the typical pueblos blancos of the Andalusia region and is often called the most beautiful village in Spain. The town is located at an altitude of 400 meters and has beautiful white streets. The pebbles on the streets, the pots with colorful plants along the facades and the white houses make the village a beautiful picture. We loved strolling through Frigiliana and looking up the viewpoints for a beautiful view over the white mountain village. Make sure your camera is fully charged, because Frigiliana is very photogenic and every street corner is worth a picture.

Frigiliana Andalusia

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Points of interest and attractions in Malaga

If you are reading this you might be thinking about coming to the south of Spain. We are going to explain what are the main points of interest in Malaga, monuments and ideas about top things to do in Malaga.

Entertainment in Malaga

Visit the links on the left side of this website for reading about highlights in the city centre and other municipalities. Check also our website to know when are held major festivals and events for planning your visit.

Autumn, ideal for cultural tourism

October, November and December

The months of October and November are perfect to discover typical Andalusian villages. If nature and outdoor exercise sounds good to you then hiking or trekking is an option to take in consideration.

Other recommendations about top attractions to visit over autumn months are: Gibralfaro Castle, Picasso Museum or Roman Theatre among others...

The climate in autumn is good enough for you to enjoy any activity, remember that there are many activities available also for Halloween.

Winter...what can you do?

December, January and February

Even though in the middle of winter it is usually cold, the weather and temperature is mild when compared to the North of Spain and Europe. Consider Malaga for your city break as a weekend getaway or a long-term holiday.

You can enjoy Malaga region at any time. While this is true consider bringing some winter clothes if coming for New Year's Eve or around that date. It can be cold throughout the early morning or the night.

During the winter many streets markets are available, feel and breath the Christmas ambiance. Christmas lights from Calle Larios are is one of the most beautiful in Europe, an event not to miss.

Winter months are colder than the rest so what about visiting monuments and museums? A superb plan is to stroll the city around and enjoy a warm tea or coffee at the old town.

Spring, mild temperature and exploration

April, May and June

Flights to Malaga increase by June but in April and May there are already visitors looking for the good weather.

Spring is a perfect season for doing outdoor activities such as hiking or golf at any golf course on the Costa del Sol . Spring season is perfect for practicing any sport as it is not too hot yet.

Mild temperature in spring invites to practice active tourism. Driving to white villages or strolling through the city centre is a nice option. Those who like beach can rent a hammock and spend a relaxing day next to a beach restaurant with drinks and seafood, doesn't it sound nice?

Don't forget Easter festivity and the feast of San Juan with bonfires and celebrations along the coast.

Summer activities: Beaches, nightlife and theme parks

July, August and September

Malaga is a very popular holiday destination all along the summertime. If you require a quiet destination in summer we recommend July or September. The excellent weather conditions invite the visitor to the beach at daytime and the promenade with restaurants and places where having a marvellous dinner at night.

Are the kind of person looking for festivals and nightlife? Then summer is your best choice, check our guides to find where is the vibrant nightlife in Malaga .

There are beaches in Malaga for every taste: Natural and quiet beaches without services or well-equipped shores with restaurants, hammocks, umbrellas and many water activities.

If coming with family or friends maybe the water park and the zoo sound tempting to you.

In august you can't miss the popular fair of Malaga , check more festivities in summer .

Espeto de sardinas

Grilled sardines, typical of Costa del Sol beaches

When to visit Malaga or which month is the best?

After reading this page you can have an idea of activities to do or the area you would like to visit. There is not really a best month to come as it depends on your planning, it doesn't really matter what month you pick as there is always something to do and a new place to discover.

There is a wide entertainment offer throughout the year, summer or winter, rainy or sunny...Malaga, a place where there is always something to do.

Points of interest in Malaga and attractions

Gibralfaro is one of the main attractions and also the symbol of the city. Once inside there is a viewpoint, use it for taking a representative picture of Malaga to show your friends. The photo will feature the port and the bullring in the bakground. This fortress is a monument not to miss.

Picasso museum and Plaza de la Merced , both related to Picasso as at the square is located the birthplace home and where Picasso used to play when he was a child.

Enjoy the gastronomy of the region , there are restaurants and bars for everyone. White villages are an excellent location for trying a typical Spanish dish...good food is always welcome, don't you think so?

Botanical gardens and parks : Malaga cares very good of its parks and natural spaces so they are a worthy visit. Among the parks are Jardín de la Concepción botanical garden, Parque de la Paloma in Benalmádena or Parque de la Bateria in Torremolinos.

Strolling Ronda and discover the old district, you can finish the day having a drink at the main square and taking a beautiful photo of Ronda bridge from the viewpoint.

Hiking and trekking routes : In the area and in Andalucia there are many hiking routes inside the Natural Parks. Beautiful walking routes where enjoying the natural beauty of southern Spain.

Visit the blog entry where we review the best month for visiting Malaga depending on your vacation plan.

Finally, another blog entry that could be of interest is about the top 10 places you shouldn't miss in Malaga .

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