malaga spain tourist spot

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Travel Safe

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Carmen Thyssen Museum in Malaga

Parque de Málaga park

Malaga Cathedral

Alcazaba fortress in Malaga

Málaga Roman Theatre

Picasso Museum Malaga

Soho Málaga - the Art District

Collection of the Russian Museum in Malaga

Pompidou Centre Malaga

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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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View some of the most relevant events you will be able to enjoy at the destination.

Exhibition: María Blanchard. Painter despite cubism

30 April 2024 - 29 September 2024

Ibero-American Advertising Festival. El Sol

30 May 2024 - 31 May 2024

Malaga Fair

17 August 2024 - 24 August 2024

Choose between thousands of activities to live your best life on holiday.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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

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 .

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

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!

• 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

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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.

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.

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!

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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If you think the Costa del Sol is soulless, you clearly haven’t been to Málaga. Loaded with history and brimming with a youthful vigour that proudly acknowledges its multi-layered past, the city that gave the world Picasso has transformed itself in spectacular fashion, with half a dozen new art galleries, a radically rethought port area and a nascent art district called Soho. Not that Málaga was ever lacking in energy: the Spanish-to-the-core bar scene could put bags under the eyes of an insomniac madrileño, while the food culture encompasses both Michelin stars and tastefully tatty fish shacks.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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Things to Do in Malaga, Spain - Malaga Attractions

Things to do in malaga.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• La Malagueta
• La Trinidad
• Pedregalejo
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Alcazaba

2. Museo del Automóvil y la Moda de Málaga

3. Malaga Cathedral

4. Museo del Vidrio y Cristal de Malaga

5. Castillo de Gibralfaro

6. Museo Picasso Malaga

7. Puerto de Malaga

8. Mercado Central de Atarazanas

9. Jardin Botanico Historico La Concepcion

10. Museo Carmen Thyssen Malaga

11. Museo de Malaga

12. Parque de Malaga

13. OXO - Museo del Videojuego

14. La Calle Larios

15. Plaza de la Constitucion

16. Mirador del Gibralfaro

17. Teatro Romano

18. Kelipe Centro de Arte Flamenco

19. Plaza de la Merced

20. Cac Málaga

21. Iglesia de los Mártires

22. Centre Pompidou Malaga

23. Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares

24. Playa de La Malagueta

25. Santuario de la Victoria

27. Palmeral de las Sorpresas

28. Museo Interactivo de la Musica Malaga

29. Malaga Aeronautical Museum

30. Revello de Toro Museum

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

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: June 9, 2023

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

Sunday 31st of March 2024

Hi, I loved reading your blog about the city of Malaga. Thanks for sharing your insider tips!

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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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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Málaga, Spain

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

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

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

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

5. El Pimpi restaurant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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Parks worth a visit in málaga, spain.

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17 Unmissable Things To Do In Malaga, Spain

Malaga on Spain ’s Costa Del Sol is a buzzing city with more history, culture and great food than many cities put together. Find out the top things to do in Malaga your first visit. 

Malaga, the heart of the Costa Del Sol. With over 300 sunny days a year, hot summers and the warmest winters in Europe, it’s a great choice for a holiday all year round.

Many Brits visit Malaga just for the airport as they travel on to the likes of Marbella and Torremolinos, but Malaga really is worth a dedicated holiday.

Malaga is a city undergoing regeneration. While it may not have the draw of nearby Andalucian cities Granada, Córdoba and Seville, it offers plenty in the way of art, culture and beauty. It’s got that beautiful marriage of ancient and modern.

Trendy bars and food markets sit next to Gothic cathedrals and Roman ruins, while rooftop pools offer views to an 11 th Century castle on one side and a modern promenade on the other. It’s got that buzz about it. A city on the rise.

Believe me, I never expected to return from my trip to southern Spain shouting about Malaga… but it genuinely surprised me. Time to share some of my favourite spots in this Malaga guide.

17 Amazing Things To Do In Malaga On Your First Visit  

Wander malaga’s old city.

Malaga is a city of cute pavement cafes, historic plazas and stunning architecture. A former stomping ground for Picasso, there’s a creative streak running through the city. Huge murals, mosaic floors and eye-catching street art line the ancient streets. Be sure to wander along Larios – one of the most expensive streets in Spain, often compared to NYC’s 5 th Avenue and the Champs Elysees in Paris. It’s one of the key points of interest in Malaga, Spain.

Visit The Food Markets In Malaga

What can you do in Malaga Spain? EAT EAT EAT! The food in Malaga is top notch and the best way to get to know it is by visiting one of the city’s markets. Mercado Central de Atarazanas is a busy market in a beautiful historic building. It’s hard not to be impressed by the huge archway at the front which was once part of a shipyard.

The building fuses 14th century Moorish architecture with 19th century industrial design. Once inside, the most eye-catching feature is its huge stained glass window. Stalls inside offer everything from cheese and meats to fresh fish, colourful fruit and vegetables and hundreds of varieties of olives.

Meanwhile, Mercado Merced is a gourmet market offering tasty tapas and alcoholic drinks in a more sophisticated environment. From Malaga’s famous fried fish to croquetas to craft beer and even sushi, it’s one of the top things to do in Malaga at night, and a really fun place to spend an evening with friends.

READ MORE: Four Day Trips From Malaga, Spain

Visit the Pompidou Centre  In Malaga

  You might not have expected the first Pompidou Centre outside of France to be in Malaga… but it seems to be a perfect fit in this creative city. The colourful cube structure sits above ground while most of the modern art is displayed in the gallery underground.

After receiving over 75,000 visitors in the first three months, it’s really set Malaga as a city for art lovers. From Picasso and Francis Bacon to dynamic live performances and visiting exhibitions, this is the kind of gallery where you don’t have to be an art connoisseur to really enjoy your visit!

Click to buy your Pompidou tickets now 

Walk along the Muelle Uno in Malaga

  Malaga has a busy port, and this area known as Quay 1 has been completely transformed into a cool shopping and dining area. Along with around 30 stores there are restaurants, cocktail bars and gelatarias.

Oh and then there’s Zoco – a monthly market selling everything from handmade crafts and jewellery to delicious organic foods.

Enjoy Views Of Malaga From A Rooftop Bar

As you walk the streets of Malaga you’ll be amazed at the beautiful historic buildings sitting alongside each other. There’s so much detail on each one… plus plenty of art to take in too. But head up to one of the city’s tallest buildings for a completely different view of the city.

Spires poke out between the congested rooftops, while boats come and go in the port. For the best view, head to the rooftop of the  AC Hotel Málaga Palacio  where you can enjoy the panorama while sipping on a cocktail by the pool!

Take A Food Tour Of Malaga

My favourite way to get to know a place is by eating my way around it! Malaga food tours run by  Spain Food Sherpas  and Devour Malaga give tourists a great introduction to Malaga with visits to the market and the city’s most interesting restaurants.

The guides are full of information, and after the tour, you’ll have a great knowledge not just of Malaga’s cuisine, but also the history and culture that has shaped it.

Ride the Malaga Wheel

At 70m high, views from the Malaga wheel are pretty spectacular. It’s one of the top Malaga attractions. Located down by the water, its said you can see for around 30km on a clear day – all the way to Morocco!

With 42 pods and space for 8 people, it’s a lot smaller than the London Eye, but it’s a still a lovely way to get to know Malaga. It’s also been voted as one of the top things to do in Malaga for couples!

Learn About Malaga’s History

Malaga has been described as one of the oldest cities in the world, with over 3000 years of history. In 7 BC, the Phoenicians founded a commercial centre here named Malaca. The Romans spent time here, plus don’t forget Arabs ruled for eight centuries and left their mark architecturally.

For history lovers, there really is so much to see! From the incredible remains of the Roman Amphitheatre from the 1 st Century to the impressive Santiago Church, Picasso’s birthplace in Plaza de la Merced, and stunning 10 th Century Castillo de Gibralfaro overlooking the city – you’ll have your work cut out seeing it all on your first visit.

Visit One Of Malaga’s Beaches

Visiting the beach is one of the top free things to do in Malaga! While many head out of Malaga to the beaches of Nerja or Marbella, there are some lovely beaches close to Malaga’s centre – 15 within the city’s limits to be exact.

Playa de la Malagueta is one of the closest, lined with shops and restaurants specialising in fresh seafood. Just beyond, Playa de la Caleta is one of the most popular with locals.

Enjoy One Of Malaga’s Beautiful Sunsets

What to do in Malaga after a busy day of exploring? Enjoy one of Malaga’s famous sunsets! As the sun disappears over the water, it’s time for another side of the city to reveal itself… the nightlife!

Crowds gather at bars lining Malaga’s ancient streets, enjoying local wine, tapas and more.

Top Tours If You’re Visiting Malaga

Walking tour of malaga.

A great first day activity! This tour covers Malaga’s food scene as well as the history and culture of the city. You’ll start at Atarazanas Central Market for some tastings before checking out the city sights including the Picasso Museum, Roman Museum and Malaga Cathedral. 

Check prices for the walking tour of Malaga

Malaga Flamenco Show

For an entertaining evening, attend an original flamenco show in Malaga’s historic centre. You’ll enjoy great music from a live band, plus enjoy a traditional drink at the bar.  Check prices for the Malaga Flamenco Show

Malaga Segway Tour

Segways are such a great way to cover a lot of ground without exhausting yourself! This tour is one of the best things to do in Malaga. During the segway adventure you’ll explore the historical heart of Malaga with a guide. You’ll pass landmarks including the Cathedral, the Alcazaba Citadel and the Museo Picasso, as well as zooming along the picturesque seafront promenade!  Check prices for segway tours of Malaga.

Rent a bike in Malaga

Hop on a mountain, road or electric bicycle from City Bikes and explore the city at your own pace for 24 hours. It’s a great way to see the city, and it’s surprisingly bike friendly too. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even ride up to the rocky summit of the Malaga Mountains on a mountain bike.  Book your bike rental now

Paella Cooking Class in Malaga

Lots of people have tried paella, but making it takes skill! At this class you’ll start by visiting the market to collect ingredients, before learning the art of making perfect Spanish paella direct from a top chef. Hopefully you’ll leave with all the tips you need to recreate the dish in your own home!

Check prices for the Malaga paella cooking class

City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Malaga

A really easy way to see the sights in a day, is by bus! Whether you’re visiting Malaga from a cruise ship, or are staying in the city, the bus tour has 14 stops including Malaga’s Cathedral, the Botanical Gardens and the Picasso Museum. There’s a stop just ten minutes walk from the cruise terminal making it really convenient! Check prices for the Malaga bus tour

Tapas tour of Malaga

A great way to explore Malaga’s gastronomy! On this tapas tour you’ll learn all about malaga’s food scene, typical dishes, and some interesting history along the way too. Check prices for the Malaga tapas tour.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my Malaga travel blog! Hopefully I’ve inspired you to explore the city!

Enjoyed this Malaga visitors guide? Why not pin it…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

6 thoughts on “17 Unmissable Things To Do In Malaga, Spain”

A great read!

Thanks Dave – glad you enjoyed it!

Thanks, Cloe for this great article. Málaga one of the loveliest cities and we love to live here and learn new things about this stunning place!

Ah you’re very lucky to call that home!

Thanks Chloe, this article is going to be of a great help for me and my wife when we visit here early next year. Once again Thank You.

That’s great news! Hope you have an amazing trip!

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23 Best Things to do in Malaga, Spain

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on March 21, 2024

While the Costa del Sol is famous for its sun, sea and sand, plenty of interesting cultural attractions and historic sites can also be found in its capital Malaga. Overlooked by two huge hilltop citadels, its enchanting Old Town boasts loads of excellent art museums and attractive old buildings.

One of the Mediterranean’s oldest seaports, it was remarkably settled back in the eighth-century BC by the Phoenicians. Its millennia of history and multicultural heritage can be seen in all its landmarks dotted around the center. These include not just an ancient Roman Theatre and exquisite Baroque cathedral but the magnificent Moorish Alcazaba too; the city’s main symbol and sight.

Packed with tourists each summer, the sunny seaside city also acts as a transport hub for the rest of the resorts and towns scattered along Spain’s southern coast. With plenty of things to in Malaga and top dining spots to hit up, Pablo Picasso’s birthplace has everything you could want from a holiday destination.

23. La Calle Larios

Malaga’s main shopping street, the lively La Calle Larios is lined by scores of unique boutiques and stylish storefronts. Thankfully covered by awnings in summer, it has a very elegant look and feel with numerous concerts, cultural events and art exhibitions also held here over the course of the year.

Inaugurated in 1891, the pedestrian street stretches from the picturesque Plaza de la Constitución to Parque de la Alameda Principal. Bordering it to either side are beautiful historical buildings designed by the Malaga-born architect Eduardo Strachan. These mainly host upscale fashion shops with only a few ice cream parlors, cafes and restaurants found alongside it.

Other than stopping for a coffee or buying some clothes, you can also pick up perfume, cosmetics or other accessories in its luxury boutiques. Thanks to its buzzing ambience and big events like Malaga Fair, Holy Week and Christmas celebrations taking place here, there is always something new to see along La Calle Larios.

22. Mirador del Gibralfaro

When you’re panting your way up to the city’s castle, make sure to stop off for a break and enjoy the phenomenal panoramas from Mirador del Gibralfaro. Overlooking the port, bullring and Alcazaba, its shady spot offers up some fabulous photo opportunities.

Starting from just behind the eleventh-century Moorish fortress, the steep path slowly snakes its way up the hillside below Castillo de Gibralfaro’s crumbling walls. Along the exposed route are a handful of vendors selling both refreshing drinks and souvenirs. If you don’t fancy hiking there yourself, there are also buses and taxis to take up to the castle.

The divine views make it well worth all the effort though as you see the sun-kissed city and sparkling sea spreading into the distance before you. Besides catching our breath here, we really appreciated seeing the city and castle from a different angle. The vistas from its ramparts are even better though so take a minute and keep on heading upwards!

21. Cac Malaga

Down by the port next to the Guadalmedina river is the cutting-edge Cac Málaga. At the outstanding contemporary art center, visitors can inspect thought-provoking pieces by international and emerging local artists.

First opened to the public in 2003, its enormous exhibition halls now house an extensive collection of paintings, photos and sculptures, among many other art forms. As they stand out delightfully against its wide-open, white spaces, many instantly draw the eye and appear quite dramatic.

Constantly changing, it displays a number of modern artworks by renowned Spanish artists such as Juan Munoz and Miquel Barcelo. The state-of-the-art center also often puts on temporary exhibitions that explore countless different themes and artistic movements. After perusing its paintings, you can always carry on to the Picasso Museum and marvel at yet more amazing masterpieces.

20. Parque de Malaga

If you instead need a bit of a break and want to immerse yourself in nature, then visiting the nearby park is one of the best things to do in Malaga. Full of pretty gardens, fountains and sculptures, Parque de Malaga’s verdant grounds lie between the Alcazaba, Old Town and the city’s waterfront.

Laid out in 1897, its landscaped, tree-lined paths provide some welcome respite from the scorching sun relentlessly beating down. Beneath its soaring palms, you can relax on park benches, admire its plants, trees and flowers or stroll amidst its wonderful statues and water features.

It also encompasses a fragrant rose garden while playgrounds and a promenade by the port are set nearby too. With exotic birds flitting about peacefully amongst the foliage, the park is a very pleasant spot to spend some time.

19. Mercado Central de Atarazanas

Not far from its lush, leafy confines is the massive Mercado Central de Atarazanas. Home to dozens of stands, stalls and several tapas bars, the vibrant market is loads of fun to explore.

Built back in 1879, its immense wrought-iron frame is decorated with elaborate arches and sublime stained-glass windows. Above its entrance for instance is a particularly captivating and colourful one that depicts historical images relating to the city’s past.

After snapping some pics, head inside and see all its stalls laden with fresh fish, fruit and vegetables. Yet others still sell specialty food products and spices or local cheeses, meats and baked goods. We really enjoyed the market’s lively ambience, arresting architecture and the tiny tapas bar we tried.

18. Plaza de la Constitucion

Just a short walk away again is the important Plaza de la Constitucion which is one of the city’s main squares and meeting points. Surrounded by lots of attractive buildings, it hums with energy at almost any time of day.

Lying at the very northern end of La Calle Larios, the spacious square has served as the political and economic center of Malaga since the fifteenth century. This was when it was properly laid out for the first time. Some of its oldest buildings like the Church of the Holy Christ of Health also date to around this time.

Before its fine facades is the gorgeous Genoa Fountain. Made of marble in the seventeenth century, it makes for some great photos with the beautiful palms and buildings behind it. Numerous cafes and shops also border the plaza which has tons of atmospheric alleys to explore branching off from it.

17. Museo de Malaga

A fascinating place to wander around, the Museo de Malaga boasts a myriad of astonishing artworks and archaeological findings. Located right by the park just behind the cathedral, it is remarkably one of the largest museums in Spain with its three floors covering over 2,000 years of history.

Now housed in the Palacio de la Aduana, an ornate eighteenth-century mansion, it was formed back in 1973 when the fine arts and archaeology museums were combined. On display in its galleries are thousands of fantastic old paintings, pots and sculptures. Enthralling exhibits also present Malaga’s Phoenician past, Roman-era and its eventual Islamisation.

Many masterpieces by famous names such as de Goya, Picasso, Ribera and Velazquez are also on show. With so many glittering treasures and unique artifacts to examine, we spent way longer than we meant to ambling about the excellent museum.

16. Teatro Romano

Overlooked by the old walls of the Alcazaba are the ancient ruins of the Teatro Romano. Although it is maybe not as large or as impressive as others in Europe, the amphitheater still looks stunning with the fort rising dramatically behind it.

Only discovered in 1951, it was constructed back in the first century by the Romans during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Very well-preserved, its worn stone seats are nestled into the side of the large hill while what was once its stage area now borders the plaza beside it.

At its visitor center, you can learn about its age-old history and see some artifacts uncovered at the site. From both below and its upper tiers too, there are some brilliant photos to be had of the theater and its scenic surroundings.

15. Museo Carmen Thyssen

Also in the Old Town is the magnificent Museo Carmen Thyssen which mainly focuses on Spanish paintings from both the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Situated just off Plaza de la Constitución, it also has a cosy cafe and outdoor terrace to stop by.

Actually only opened in 2011, its collection occupies a purpose-built museum erected about the ruins of the sixteenth-century Palacio de Villalon. Centered around its elegant, airy courtyard are four floors of galleries for you to stroll about. These contain a plethora of very detailed portraits, landscapes and romantic images of daily life in centuries gone by.

Alongside all its incredible Andalusian artworks are also some wonderful works by the European Old Masters. After enjoying the wide range of topics and techniques covered, you can pick up some gifts or souvenirs in its on-site shop.

14. Plaza de la Merced

On the northern side of the Old Town is another of Malaga’s most happening squares. At Plaza de la Merced, you can relax and enjoy the sun at its cafes’ terraces while taking in its laidback atmosphere and lovely architecture. There is also Pablo Picasso’s childhood home for you to visit at one corner.

While the square has served as a public space since way back in Roman times, it was only from the fifteenth century onwards that it operated as a marketplace. It was later smartened up when military parades were held here during the short-lived existence of Napoleonic Spain. The plaza’s colourful collection of old buildings is now instead home to countless local cafes and tapas bars.

In its center too is an ornate obelisk dedicated to General Torrijos and forty-eight of his companions who were executed here on the orders of Ferdinand VII. Much more cheerful is the statue of Picasso on a bench that many people sit and take photos with. Sipping a drink and watching both locals and tourists go by was by far our favorite thing to do in this part of town.

13. Day Trip to Antequera

If you want to see a bit more of the south of Spain , then it is well worth taking a day trip to Antequera if you have the time. Known as ‘the heart of Andalusia’, the historic town is reachable in just forty-five minutes’ drive through the majestic mountains directly north of the city.

Due to its central location in between Malaga, Granada, Cordoba and Seville, it thrived for centuries as a commercial hub. This led to plenty of impressive palaces and churches springing up with it also developing into a cultural center too.

While the loss of Spain’s American colonies put paid to its prosperity, it still has a staggering array of historic sites to see. These include not just its fortress and bullring but the Renaissance-style Royal Collegiate Church of Santa Maria la Mayor too. Other than checking out its other charming churches and convents, you can also sample delicious dishes from around the region.

12. Jardin Botanico Histórico La Concepción

On the way back into town is the absolutely idyllic Jardin Botanico Histórico La Concepción. Home to all kinds of pretty plants, flowers, trees and shrubs, its shady paths and sparkling water features are a delight to amble about.

First conceived of over 150 years ago, its lush green grounds now contain over 50,000 tropical and Mediterranean plants. These hail from almost every corner of the globe with fantastic waterfalls and fountains also being found amidst its exotic flowers and aquatic plants.

Immaculately maintained and very lovingly laid out, the Romantic-style gardens sprawl across a huge hillside. From their upper realms, you can also enjoy commanding views with frogs, lizards and birds sometimes spotted amongst the undergrowth. After seeing its cacti, orchids and succulents, stop by its tranquil outdoor cafe before returning to the busy city center.

11. Centre Pompidou Malaga

Yet another of the city’s top-class art museums to explore is the Centre Pompidou Malaga. Instantly recognizable due to the large, colourful cube outside, its exciting exhibits and art installations occupy a massive modern building down by the port.

The first branch of the world-renowned Centre Pompidou located outside France, its state-of-the-art centre was opened in 2015. Its galleries contain an eclectic mix of paintings, photos and sculptures with works by Picasso and Frida Kahlo also featuring.

Delightfully displayed, many of its unique installations have numerous ways to interact with them and interpret their meaning with unusual shapes, objects and art forms all represented. Much better (in our opinion) than the Picasso Museum, we found all its exhibits super interesting and eye-catching. While it isn’t very large, we’d still highly recommend Centre Pompidou for its fun, thought-provoking pieces.

10. Semana Santa

One of the best and most memorable times to visit Malaga is in the run up to Easter when important processions and celebrations take place for Semana Santa. Hugely significant (and extravagant!), its exuberant crowds, spectacular floats and lively marching bands really are special to experience.

Since the reconquest of Andalusia some 500 years ago, Holy Week has been held across the south of Spain to commemorate the Passion of Jesus. During the last week of Lent, Malaga’s festivities are particularly fervent as over forty Catholic brotherhoods and all their thousands of members take part.

Parading through the city’s streets, the candle-lit processions hold up heavy wooden sculptures of Jesus, the Virgin Mary and striking scenes from the Passion. Only adding to the spectacle are all the moving chants, music and hordes of penitents massing about along the route. Utterly unforgettable, Semana Santa is an exciting if exhausting time to explore the city.

9. Playa de La Malagueta

As no trip to the Costa del Sol can ever be complete without lounging on the beach, you just have to hit up Playa de La Malagueta at some point. The nearest swathe of sand to the center, it lies just a short walk from the Alcazaba, overlooked by Castillo de Gibralfaro high up on the hillside.

Curving its way gently alongside the Mediterranean, Malagueta’s soft sands stretch over a kilometer in length. Very wide and spacious, it is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas and showers while plenty of bars and restaurants border its palm tree-lined promenade. A couple of playgrounds and a small observation platform are also dotted here and there.

Aside from sunbathing and swimming, you can play volleyball or enjoy fine views over the rest of the city’s coastline. Thanks to its super convenient central location, the beach is very popular with locals and tourists alike. This means it can get quite crowded during the sunny summer months.

8. Museo del Vidrio y Cristal

Boasting a beautifully curated collection of glasswork from across the millennia, the Museo del Vidrio y Cristal really is an overlooked gem. Its incredibly enthusiastic guides and the gorgeous architecture of the building itself make it even more of a must.

Located in a carefully-restored eighteenth-century building just north of the Old Town, the decorative arts museum was first opened to the public in 2009. On display are roughly 3,000 glass vases, bowls and wine jugs. These hail from all around the world with the oldest dating to antiquity. Each room is also exquisitely decorated with fabulous period pieces, furniture and paintings.

While the lovely house, its layout and collection already look a treat, its knowledgeable guides really enthuse you about the museum’s unique objects. Very friendly and engaging, they impart everything there is to know about the Phoenician, Persian and Roman glassware before you.

7. Walk the Caminito del Rey

If after all the endless art museums and historic sights you want an exhilarating outdoor adventure, then the Caminito del Rey is definitely the place for you. Nestled amidst craggy mountains around an hour’s drive away, the narrow gorge has an amazingly scenic trail to hike along.

Constructed in the early twentieth century, the precipitous path was closed for years after falling into disrepair and being described as ‘the world’s most dangerous walkway’. Since reopening in 2015, its dramatic cliffside trail has proven highly popular with hikers. As everyone now wears harnesses and helmets and groups are accompanied by an experienced guide, it is extremely safe.

Winding its way for three kilometers through the mountains, it takes you by some absolutely stunning scenery. Peering down into the rugged gorge, seeing its streams and shrubs hugging its steep sides really is an awe-inspiring experience. One of the highlights of our time in Malaga, its majestic views and remarkable landscapes make it a must in our eyes. You may want to give it a miss though if you don’t have a head for heights!

6. Puerto de Malaga

Much more relaxing is wandering about by the picturesque Puerto de Malaga back in the city center. Recently redeveloped, it now has tons of waterfront restaurants and bars to try with sites such as the Centre Pompidou and La Farola lighthouse also being found here.

One of the oldest ports in the Mediterranean, it was impressively founded by the Phoenicians around 1000 BC. Whereas it was once Roman, Moorish or Imperial Spanish ships that traded here, it is now instead sleek cruise liners that dock at its wharves.

A hive of activity, especially at weekends, the port often has live music and market stalls for people to enjoy. With beaches, marinas, parks and, of course, the Old Town all also lying nearby, it is a very pleasant spot to stop by either during the day or evening.

5. Museo Automovilistico & de la Moda

Just a bit further down the coast from both the centre and the port is the Museo Automovilistico & de la Moda. One of the best in town, it has countless classic cars and haute couture items for visitors to admire. While this may seem an unlikely combination, the way its thirteen thematic rooms pairs them together really works rather well.

Established in 2007, the interesting automobile and fashion museum occupies the former building of the Royal Tobacco Factory. Inside are around a hundred vintage vehicles and roughly 300 pieces of fine clothing and lavish accessories to examine. Among them are not just glinting Bugattis, Bentleys and Jaguars but exotic gowns by Balenciaga and Dior too.

Its exhibits highlight how artistic trends and automobile designs have evolved hand-in-hand over the decades. Different trends and eras are explored across the collection such as Art Deco and the Belle Epoque. Highlights include its bright red Maserati A6 and an early two-cylinder car dating to 1898.

4. Castillo de Gibralfaro

Looming above the entire city and even the Alcazaba is the enormous Castillo de Gibralfaro; one of Malaga’s main sights. From its crumbling ramparts, you can enjoy sweeping views over both of them and the sparkling coast stretching far off into the distance.

Due to its strategic setting amidst Malaga’s coastal mountain range, some form of fortifications have stood here for at least 2,500 years. Its current walls were built by Caliph Abd-al-Rahman III about its 130-meter-high hilltop. Later enlarged and strengthened, the castle was the site of a famous standoff between the Moors and Christians during the Reconquest of Spain.

While not much besides its towers and ramparts remains, walking along them and about its grounds is still worthwhile. Asides from its riveting views which really are unrivaled, there is a smallish visitors center which covers the castle’s past. Although it is possibly a bit underwhelming after the Alcazaba, we still enjoyed our visit. We certainly appreciated its shady cafe after having panted our way up the hill in the scorching sun.

3. Museo Picasso Malaga

The one modern art museum that everyone makes sure to find time for is the Museo Picasso. As the esteemed artist was born in Malaga, hundreds of his paintings, sketchings and sculptures have been collected here.

Founded in 2003, the museum is located in the sixteenth-century Buenavista Palace in the Old Town near the Alcazaba. In total, over 200 works are displayed in its rooms surrounding the building’s airy central courtyard. These represent the entire span of his life and career with early drawings and rare engravings lying next to some better-known paintings and small sculptures.

Although it is now one of the city’s biggest draws, we came away quite disappointed by the museum. Not particularly large (and quite pricey for its size), it also doesn’t seem to contain many of his main masterpieces. Most people there appeared to enjoy it though so go and see for yourself whether his early artworks take your fancy!

2. Malaga Cathedral

Besides the Alcazaba, Malaga Cathedral is by far the city’s most important and impressive building. An architectural gem, it boasts a beautiful Baroque facade, an enormous, ornate interior and tons of religious treasures.

Following the Reconquest of Spain and Andalusia, the colossal cathedral was constructed between 1528 and 1782 to replace the Great Mosque and return the city to Christian ways. Its imposing size and spectacular architecture really do make a statement.

Although no expense was spared, it is still known as ‘La Manquita’ or the ‘One-Armed Woman’. This is because money for its unfinished south tower was instead donated to the Americans to help them achieve independence from the British.

Inside is just as arresting as soaring ceilings and columns rise high above its art-filled chapels, altars and elaborately carved choir stalls. We couldn’t believe the sense of space inside and loved taking in all its fantastic features and centuries-old religious paintings. You can also take tours up to its rooftop which apparently has incredible views over the Old Town, Alcazaba and the belltower before you.

1. Alcazaba

Dominating the Old Town are of course the ruddy red walls of the Alcazaba which overlook it from its prominent hilltop. One of the best-preserved Moorish medieval forts in Spain, its elegant courtyards, towers and gardens are fascinating to explore.

Tumbling their way down the hillside, its series of sturdy walls, towers and gates were erected in the eleventh century. As you progress up along its cobbled paths to the palace, you’ll pass lush gardens, groves of pines and phenomenal viewpoints. Once you arrive, there are gorgeous courtyards full of marvelous Mudejar architectural elements and gushing water features to stroll about.

While it may not quite be as impressive as Granada’s Alhambra , the Alcazaba was undoubtedly the highlight of our time in town. All its decorative details, delightful architecture and divine views made it amazing to amble around. Not to be missed, the citadel is Malaga’s standout attraction for most people.

Where to Stay in Malaga

As most of the main tourist attractions in Malaga are concentrated in the Old Town, you are best off staying in or around the center. Numerous hotels are also located by Playa de la Malagueta. This is another enticing option if you want to roll out of bed onto the beach before visiting museums and historic sites later in the day.

Perfectly placed for exploring the Old Town, port and beach is the four-star Molina Lario . Lying right by the cathedral, it guarantees guests a quiet, relaxing stay in its spacious, stylish rooms. As well as an elegant dining room, its rooftop pool and bar provide panoramic views over the rest of Malaga. To top it all off, friendly and welcoming staff are only too happy to help out with anything you need.

Almost right next to it is the delightful Hotel Don Curro . Great value for money, the family-friendly three-star hotel has comfy, clean rooms and complimentary breakfasts to enjoy. Many have balconies with fine views of the cathedral and city. Walking distance to almost everything, the hotel’s restaurant also has a terrific menu of the day to try out.

How to get there

Very well-connected to the rest of the country and almost the whole of Europe, the city is served by Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport; one of the busiest in Spain. From here, you can easily get a bus, train or taxi to the center.

Malaga also operates one of the busiest seaports in the Mediterranean with ferries from North Africa and cruise ships often stopping off here.

Another option for reaching the city is by high-speed train with it taking about two and a half to three hours to the capital Madrid . Both Cordoba and Seville are much closer at just an hour and two hours respectively. Regional trains and buses also take you to various towns along the coast. Motorways run all the way to either Gibraltar and Almeira or inland again to Cordoba .

Once you arrive, almost everything is within walking distance. If not, you can always hop on a bus or take a taxi to any tourist attractions a bit further away. Many people also rent cars for day trips along the coast or to other Andalusian cities.

Approximate travel times

• Marbella – 45 minutes by car, 1 hour by bus
• Nerja – 1 hour by car, 1 hour 30 minutes by bus
• Cordoba – 2 hours by car, 1 hour by train
• Granada – 1.5 hours by car, 2 hours by train and bus
• Seville – 2.5 hours by car, 2 hours by train
• Madrid – 5.5 hours by car, 2 hours 30 minutes by train

Best Time to Visit Malaga

Wonderful to visit at any time of year, Malaga is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine and warm, if not hot, weather each month. While it can make for a nice winter getaway, April to October sees the lion’s share of tourists arrive.

The Easter holidays are usually when the first wave of visitors rock up. Semana Santa – the city’s most important festival – sees religious parades, ceremonies and live music events all take place. Although still too cold to swim, temperatures of 19 to 23°C (66 to 73°F) in April and May are perfect for sightseeing, hiking and day trips along the Costa del Sol.

From June onwards is beach time in Malaga as temperatures remain between 27 and 30°C (80 to 86°F). While it is the busiest and most expensive period, the weather couldn’t be better for sunbathing and swimming. Countless festivals like the Feria de Malaga create a lively yet laidback ambience around town.

Slightly cooler and much less crowded, September and October are among the best months to visit Malaga. Aside from sunbathing and swimming, you can explore all the White Towns of Andalusia with fewer people around.

Winter can be a great period to pick up some deals as relatively few people visit despite the temperature never dropping below 14°C (57°F).

Map of Things to do in Malaga, Spain

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14 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 three times and loved it the second and third time even better than the one before. 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 .

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.

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:

#1 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.

#2 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.

#3 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.

#4 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?

#5 Mariposa Hotel in Soho with a sunny roof terrace and art deco-style rooms.

#6 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.

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.

Two museums that are definitely free to visit are the CAC for contemporary art and the Museo de Málaga , which delves into the city’s history, including its historical paintings. Also free are the exhibition at Plaza de Torres, the modern art museum Jorge Rando, and the city museum Museo del Patrimonio Municipal, all offering unique cultural experiences.

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!

#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.

Hidden Gem: Stop by the intriguing shop, Librería Mapas y Compañía. This bookstore is a vibrant explosion of color, overflowing with books, globes, and a charming chaos.

#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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

Hidden Gem: Did you know there’s a lesser-known yet beautiful market hall in Malaga? This is Mercado de Salamanca, whose facade is truly a sight to behold. Just around the corner is the free Museo Jorge Rando, home to works by this modern artist. It’s a perfect opportunity to combine a visit to both places.

#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.

#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.

#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 bullring is situated at the foot of the Gibralfaro mountain, the viewpoint on the mountain offers a spectacular view of this arena. In fact, this spot might just be the best place to view the arena, as it’s not open to visitors except during bullfighting events. However, part of the arena is accessible for free where temporary exhibitions are held. While viewing the art, you can get a glimpse of the arena, though the view is limited.

The exhibitions themselves are often quite fascinating. For instance, during our second visit to the arena in early 2024, we encountered an exceptional photography exhibition called Contact Sheets , featuring compelling news photos from the Magnum news agency, where we spent an engaging two hours.

#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.

#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.

#13 Santiago Church

Don’t miss the Santiago Church, located on Calle Granada. This is the city’s oldest church, founded in 1490, with a stunning façade that still showcases elements of a Moorish past. The interior is richly detailed with an ornately decorated ceiling and elaborate Baroque decorations.

A unique tradition takes place at this church on the first Friday in March when thousands of people flock to the site. We witnessed an incredibly long queue that snaked through the city as people from near and far came to honor the statue of Christ of Medinaceli by placing three coins in the basket, a gesture tied to an age-old legend. Rather than joining the lengthy queue, we opted to visit the church the following day.

A point of pride for Malaga’s residents is that this very church is where none other than Pablo Ruiz Picasso was baptized in 1881, as commemorated by a plaque on the façade.

#14 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.

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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Málaga

• Tripkay Essentials

Facing the sea, Málaga is a sociable, artistic and cosmopolitan city. Málaga proudly shows visitors its revitalized city with enormous historical and cultural heritage buildings. A legacy of all the civilizations that have passed through its Bay. It would be impossible to list all the attractions of the city.  But this is our list of  the Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Málaga. The list of our favorites places.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Málaga you can not miss:

Larios street.

All of the biggest cities of the world have a main shopping street, like the 5th Avenue in New York, the Champes Elysees in Paris, or the Paseo de Gracia in Barcelona which are famous landmarks ; Málaga has the elegant and surprising Larios street. You cannot miss walking under the awnings that decorate the city while touring the stores that fill this mythical street. This is one of the most typical Tourist Attractions in Málaga.

Muslim Alcazaba

One of the most emblematic places of Málaga city, the Alcazaba, is situated at the foot of Mount Gibralfaro, one of the largest Muslim military buildings remaining in Spain. Definitely, the best is entering and crossing it every inch while getting amused. Its palaces, courtyards and fountains will take you to another era. It was home to governors, kings and nobles of the time. Don’t forget to visit its viewpoints to enjoy the best views of the city.

Visit to the Málaga Cathedral, La Manquita

You can not miss paying a visit to this cultural Tourist Attractions in Málaga, the Cathedral of Málaga, La Manquita. Beyond its historical and artistic value, what is most striking is that is incomplete. Since it lacks one of its towers, hence the nickname La Manquita. Built on a large mosque, the first thing that made the Catholic Monarchs after the reconquest was to conduct a Mass to consecrate it.

Espetos in Pedregalejo

You can not leave Málaga without tasting the delicious espetos , and one of the best places to do it is the seaside neighborhood of Pedregalejo . No excuses : no visit to Málaga is complete if you don’t go to any of the restaurants along the waterfront and taste this typical Málaga dish made with some delicious sardines, which is the most traditional way.

Jardín Botánico de la Concepción

One of the surprises that Málaga has reserved for us is the beautiful Botanical Garden La Concepción , one of the most beautiful gardens in Europe. Right outside the city is this tropical garden. Several tours are offered to discover its secrets. You will feel like a real Marquis walking among the palm groves and touring houses

Visit the birthplace of Picasso and Museum

Málaga is the city that gave birth to this universally known painter . In the old town, you can enjoy visiting the house where the Málaga artist grew up and, a few meters, you can visit the Picasso museum. Here you will discover the life and work of one of the greatest artists of our country.

Going up to the Castle of Gibralfaro

An imperative visit to Málaga is going to the Castle of Gibralfaro , which is a real “must”. You can explore the periphery of this fortress, which for many years was totally impregnable. It is compused with 8 towers and 2 lines of walls that connected the Castle with the Alcazaba. From the top, you will enjoy a spectacular view of the city and the Bay.

Quay 1 and the Palm Grove of Surprises in Málaga

Harborside, you will find one of the major shopping and entertainment areas of the city. The Paseo Muelle 1 was opened in 2011, after a long period of 10 years of work It is now a gathering area for Malagueños and tourists. Here, you can take long walks along the pier, rent bikes, enjoy the place with children or spend an afternoon shopping.    Moreover, the cuisine of this area is very wide and varied.

Thyssen Museum

If you like art, you can not miss the wonderful Thyssen Museum , located at Compañía 10 of Málaga. The Museum is located in a palace of the sixteenth century. It has a collection of 285 works on a journey through different genres of Spanish painting of the nineteenth century.

Dinner at Bodega El Pimpi

The dozens of photos of artists and celebrities who have passed through here, which you will see upon arrival, show us the relevance of this place. The Bodega El Pimpi is possibly the most emblematic spot of Málaga. A place in which personalities like Antonio Banderas and The Duchess of Alba, have passed through its Andalusian patios and different rooms. Everyone wants to know about this place.

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13 hidden gems and unique spots in Malaga, Spain

Malaga is a prominent city to visit in the famous Costa del Sol area in Spain. People have lived in Malaga for almost 3000 years so it is full of history, art, and unique places. Here are some hidden gems and unique spots you should visit in Malaga during your stay!

In this blog post, you will find all the places with descriptions, photos, and locations where they can be found on Google Maps . I hope you enjoy Malaga as much as we did! Happy exploring!

Read more » 13 best day trips from Malaga, Spain

TABLE OF CONTENTS »

1. Rooftop of Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga

The Cathedral of Malaga is one of the most prominent buildings in the city and also one of the most beautiful ones. It was built in the Renaissance architectural style. It is impossible to walk around Malaga Old Town and miss the cathedral.

You can buy tickets to visit the interior of the cathedral and there is usually a line in the morning to get inside it. I am sure that visiting it is a beautiful experience, but not many people know that you can buy tickets to visit the roof of the cathedral, too!

Visits to the roof happen in groups at certain times. You can buy tickets at the cathedral or online where you can see the timetable for the visits. The roof is not easily accessible as you can only get there by ascending ~200 steps through a narrow staircase.

The group is accompanied by two guides who will let you walk around the perimeter of the roof. The views of the city and the port of Malaga are quite magnificent! I would recommend going there for the morning sun or for the sunset if possible.

Location: Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga · Entrance

2. Mirador de Gibralfaro

It is impossible to miss Gibralfaro mountain when visiting Malaga. The mountain stands right by the city and is one of my favorite hidden gems in Malaga.

Obviously, there is a castle on the top of the mountain as well as the Alcazaba fortress on the slopes of it. However, there is more to the mountain.

There is a narrow walking path that starts near Alcazaba and continues uphill. The best part of this walking path is the views over the city. Especially the port and the bullring. The hike starts on this street , then through a tunnel and uphill. There are two viewpoints to get the best views.

There are even benches and places to sit along the way. You can grab some snacks, and drinks and have a small picnic. You will definitely get the best sunrise and sunset views here on this mountain! The photo was taken next to the Lookout One (location below).

Location: Lookout One · Mirador de Gibralfaro

3. Pasaje Chinitas

Chinitas Passage is a narrow street in the heart of the Old Town of Malaga that is connected to the main square – Plaza de la Constitución.

This narrow arch-shaped portal with arched metal lanterns above your head has historically been a place to meet up for artists, poets, and bullfighters.

Today there are small cafes in the passage to sit and watch the busy life in the square pass by. A hidden place to disappear from the crowds.

The passage gained popularity after a popular Spanish poet mentioned it in one of his poems. Don’t miss it during your trip!

Location: Pasaje Chinitas

4. Poem stairs and Malaga letters

One of my favorite hidden gems in Malaga is the poem stairs. They are located next to the ancient Roman theatre near Alcazaba. However, not many people ever go there because the stairs only lead to the Mirador de la Alcazaba viewpoint and nowhere else.

I have to mention that the stairs are located behind a gate that usually only opens at 10 AM. Once you ascend the stairs you will see the Malaga letters with a background of Alcazaba. If you climb higher you will get to the Mirador de la Alcazaba viewpoint that overlooks the Roman theatre and the city.

The poem on the stairs with each line written on a separate step is called ‘And so is Málaga’. It was written by Rafael Pérez Estrada. It is a short beautiful poem in Spanish about the city of Malaga. I will not translate it for you and I hope you will do it yourself when you get there! 🙂

Location: Poem stairs · Malaga letters · Mirador de la Alcazaba

5. Dinner on the highest rooftop in Malaga

Did you know that any visitor to Malaga can have dinner or drinks on the highest rooftop in Malaga with a 360-degree view of the city and the Mediterranean sea? I know that it sounds too good to be true, but it is true. This is among my favorite hidden gems in Malaga and we went there multiple times!

The highest rooftop in Malaga is the building of the AC Hotel Malaga Palacio by Marriott. If you want to have dinner or drinks there, then you don’t have to book a room at the hotel. We just went to the hotel and told them at the reception that we wanted to go to the rooftop.

There are tables inside (with glass windows) and also outside on the roof. The drinks bar is only outside. You can walk around the roof and snap photos of the cathedral, the port, and the city. The food was fantastic and we really enjoyed this experience!

Location: Restaurante Roof top AC Hotel

6. Street art wall at Plaza de la Judería

One of the hidden gems in Malaga Old Town is a street art wall at Plaza de la Judería. It is a place that most tourists would not even notice and stroll by. However, there is a nice square with a tree, a fountain, and a long wall of different street art paintings to check out.

Location: Plaza de la Judería

7. Mercado Central de Atarazanas

One of the most unique buildings and hidden gems in Malaga is Mercado Central de Atarazanas. It is a huge covered marketplace divided into multiple parts where you can find all kinds of fresh produce. The building is quite impressive with huge glass paintings on one side of it.

The best part that not many people know is that there are multiple tapas bars where you can get drinks and freshly made tapas from the products they sell in the market! We had lunch here at Medina Bar and really enjoyed it! You should know that the market is only open until 3 PM.

Location: Mercado Central de Atarazanas

8. Jardín Botánico Histórico – La Concepción

La Concepción is a historic botanic garden on the outskirts of Malaga city. There is an entrance fee of 5.20 EUR to visit this garden and it is open every day except on Mondays. You can visit it for free on Sunday afternoons ( see here ).

The botanic garden is not only full of historic, exotic, and unique plants, but also historic buildings (this was a family home once), museums, and charming corners – waterfalls, sculptures, ponds, gardens, and greenhouses. This place was a beautiful estate of an aristocratic family.

We enjoyed our visit very much and I suppose it could be a very nice escape from the summer heat in Malaga – there is plenty of shade behind trees and plants.

Most importantly – you can get some of the best views over Malaga city from here! Highly recommend! You can get there by taxi or by bus .

Location: Jardín Botánico Histórico – La Concepción

9. Breakfast on the roof at Café Gallery

Having breakfast on the rooftop sounds as dreamy as possible. Did you know that you don’t have to book an expensive room at a luxury hotel to have breakfast on a rooftop terrace in Malaga? Yes, it is true!

Café Gallery is located on the ground floor of Dulces Dreams Boutique Hostel. It is a very nice café serving different options for breakfast and is open to everyone.

Most of the people stay downstairs, but you can ask the waiter to make a tray so you can bring your breakfast up the stairs to the roof (there is no elevator)! They have about 5 tables there for you to have an unforgettable breakfast experience overlooking the city of Malaga!

This was one of my favorite memories from our trip! The waiters don’t serve food there, so you will have to bring your tray downstairs yourself after you finish eating. Check their website to see their opening hours!

Location: Dulces Dreams Boutique Hostel & Café Gallery

10. Acueducto San Telmo Ciudad Jardín

Due to the growing population and booming trade in the second half of the 18th century, Malaga was becoming a hotspot place for living. So it was decided to build an 11-kilometer-long aqueduct in order to transport water to the expanding city.

Today this aqueduct is considered one of the most important hydraulic engineering works of the 18th century in Spain. You can see this well-preserved structure up close if you have the means to get to one of the suburbs of Malaga – Ciudad Jardín.

The aqueduct is located inside a park and is free to visit. You can even climb a hill next to it to peek inside the upper part of the aqueduct where the water would usually flow. Obviously, it is not functioning anymore but it is interesting to see especially if you haven’t seen an aqueduct before.

Location: Acueducto San Telmo Ciudad Jardín

11. Málaga Urban Park

Visiting a park doesn’t sound too exciting, right? What could be so interesting in a park? Malaga parks are something different. They are a combination of arches, fountains, orange trees, and a jungle! They must be a TOP spot during the summer heat, haha! You can really find the darkest shade here!

I especially enjoyed Malaga Urban Park (which is jungle-like and has fountains ), but this part of the Jardines de Puerta Oscura was one of my favorite hidden gems in Malaga. There are arches and flower walls and fountains and it is a more quiet corner of the gardens.

However, if you are looking for a walk under the orange trees then Jardines de Pedro Luis Alonso will be the one for you. It is more decorative and well-maintained with walkways and benches scattered throughout it.

12. Coffee shops in Malaga

I am one of those travelers who always look for specialty coffee shops anywhere I am traveling. It is not always possible to find one. Especially in Spain! However, I was very surprised by how many specialty coffee shops are there in Malaga Old Town!

I even wrote a blog post about the best breakfast and specialty coffee places in Malaga because there are so many! My favorite coffee shops are – Next Level Specialty Coffee , Delicotte Speciality Coffee & Tea , Kima Coffee , Mia Coffee House , Bertani Café , Santa Coffee Catedral , Bun and Coffee , as well as El Último Mono Juice & Coffee . There are more so check out my blog post!

13. El Peñón del Cuervo

If you have a car (you can also take a taxi!) and you are looking for a more quiet place to relax at the beach then try this unique hidden gem near Malaga – Playa Peñon del Cuervo. It is a sandy beach with a palm-lined promenade along it – perfect for walks or running.

However, the most unique thing about this beach is the prominent rock formation with a big hole in the side of it – El Peñón del Cuervo. This is a beautiful and more remote place where you can get away from the buzz of the city. Perfect for a beach picnic or waiting for the golden hour.

Location: El Peñón del Cuervo

More Malaga travel inspiration!

• Malaga Bucket List: 11 best things to do in Malaga, Spain
• 19 best Instagram spots of the coolest places in Malaga, Spain
• 13 best day trips from Malaga, Spain
• 7+ best rooftops and cool places to see Malaga from above!
• 15 best breakfast cafés and specialty coffee shops in Malaga, Spain
• 9 most beautiful places to visit in Malaga, Spain

Happy exploring!

Malaga is a must-visit city in Andalusia, the Southern region of Spain. It is a year-round destination known for its palm-lined sandy beaches, Castle of Gibralfaro, Alcazaba of Malaga fortress, and also as the birthplace of the famous painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso.

Malaga is the best place to go to catch some sun as well as embark on a road trip around Andalusia. I hope you enjoy your time in Malaga as much as we did and get some inspiration from my blog to make your trip even more adventurous, fun, and unforgettable!

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Marta is an economist turned full-time traveler. She comes from a small village in a small country (Latvia) with a big dream to see the big World and share it all with you!

On Explored by Marta, you will find travel guides and bucket lists made for active travelers who plan their own itineraries with a little bit of everything - must-see spots, hidden gems, cities, nature, fun adventures, and relaxation!

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