Known for its rich history and being the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Malaga has become a must see destination in recent years. Historic sites, incredible tapas and a blue flag beach also make it a great base for exploring the rest of Andalusia in Spain.
When to visit: May – June is best temperature wise but visit in August for the huge street party, Feria de Malaga.
One or Two Days in Malaga: Explore the old town, do a tapas tour and have cocktails on the beach.
Three Days in Malaga: See a flamenco show and visit a museum or two.
Four Days + in Malaga: Explore the castle or take a trip to Granada.
Must see Site: The cathedral (even if it’s having a drink and admiring it from the square outside.)
Best Tour: Tapas Tasting Tour
Best Day Trip: Granada
Located in the Costa del Sol region of southern Spain Malaga today is known for its excellent beaches and vibrant cultural scene thanks to it’s artistical revival in recent years. With its sunny weather, Malaga is the perfect place to visit during the summer months, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.
Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient Roman ruins, indulging in delicious tapas, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Malaga has something for everyone to enjoy.
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Best Things to Do in Malaga Andalusia Spain
Explore the vibrant Old Town with its charming alleys and historic sites, including the Roman Theatre. Dive into art at the Picasso Museum or relax at La Malagueta beach. Visit the impressive 16th-century cathedral, La Manquita, then stroll through the bustling Plaza de la Merced. Enjoy fresh seafood at the Port City or watch the sunset at Muelle Uno.
Malaga Cathedral – La Manquita
The cathedrals south tower and main façade remainin unfinished. Construction began in the Gothic style in the 16th century under the order of the Catholic Monarchs and continued throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. The epic building project cost so much that in 1782 it was decided that building work should stop and one of the two bell towers would be left incomplete. The cathedral boasts gardens and a beautiful courtyard, while its interior showcases a blend of Renaissance and Baroque influences.
I recommend taking a guided tour up to the roof to enjoy view’s over Malaga.
Plaza de la Merced
Situated at the top of Calle Granada, this square is a great place to grab an aperitif in the evenings, with occasional open-air events held here. The Picasso Museum is also located here.
Picasso Museum
The birthplace of renowned artist Pablo Picasso, Malaga is home to the Picasso Museum, which showcases a vast collection of his works. The pretty building that houses the museum is worth exploring in itself. Features a gift shop, a café and an exhibition space. Audio guides are available or you can book onto a museum tour.
La Malagueta beach
La Malagueta beach in Málaga is popular among tourists and locals for its dark sand, moderate swells and palm tree-lined promenade. Located near the city centre, it offers various leisure activities, bed and parasol rental and a children’s play area. The beach has been awarded a Blue Flag.
La Malagueta bullring
This neo-Mudéjar style bullring was inaugurated on 11 June 1876 and continues to host bullfights. For obvious reasons, you might not wish to attend a bullfight but this bullring contains a museum dedicated to the renowned matador Antonio Oróñez.
Shopping at Muelle Uno
Malaga’s port city status has led to the development of the trendy Muelle Uno district, where visitors can enjoy shopping, dining and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Hammam Al Andalus
Luxurious Moorish style spa and baths. Book ahead to reserve a treatment spot. Same franchise that has Moorish baths in Granada.
Website.
Top Historic Sites in Malaga
Roman Theatre
The theatre was constructed in the first century BC during Emperor Augustus’ reign and remained operational until the third century AD.
In 1951, the theatre was uncovered during the construction of Casa de Cultura. The garden construction was halted, and excavation work commenced instead. A controversial decision in 1995 led to the demolition of a third of the site occupied by Casa de la Cultura. Following the complete excavation of the site, an extensive restoration project began, proving more challenging than expected due to many missing components now forming part of the neighbouring Alcazaba’s foundations.
There is a visitor centre which is free to visit.
Alcazaba Fortress
Marvel at the 16th-century Alcazaba, offering breathtaking views of the city. The entrance is behind the Roman Theatre.
Malaga’s Old Town
The city’s charming old town is a must-visit, with its narrow streets, historical buildings and lively atmosphere.
Gibralfaro Castle
Don’t miss the iconic Gibralfaro Castle, a testament to the city’s strategic significance.
Where to Stay in Malaga
The Old Town: With its historic sites like the Roman Theatre and the Picasso Museum the old town is a great base for exploring Malaga for a few days. If you are travelling with lots of children, be aware that some accommodation options won’t have a lift due to the nature of the historic buildings.
La Malagueta: Beach area between Malaga and La Caleta beach. Great base for sun seekers and sailing fans as Spain’s oldest yacht club is located on the beach. Features many sea front resorts with amazing views.
El Perchel: trendy historic district near to the train station. Excellent choice if you want to be near the shopping district and transport links.
Best Restaurants and Bars in Malaga
For those looking to sample the local cuisine, Casa Lola is a popular choice. This restaurant offers traditional Spanish dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Another must-visit is El Pimpi, a historic bar and restaurant that serves traditional Andalusian food in a charming setting.
La Malagueta is a popular area for nightlife, with its beachfront bars and clubs. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The city also offers a variety of rooftop bars, where visitors can enjoy a drink while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
La Cosmo
For a modern and informal dining experience with a prime city location, visit La Cosmo near the cathedral. Featuring an open kitchen, the restaurant serves classic Mediterranean dishes with an elegant twist. You won’t be disappointed.
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La Taberna de Mike Palmer
A restaurant with a mix of rustic and contemporary vibes that exudes a peaceful atmosphere due to its setting outside of the city within an equestrian club. Modernised traditional dishes are crafted from locally sourced ingredients. For the best seat in the house book a table on the charming terrace.
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Bar Antigua Casa de Guardia
A rite of passage for anyone visiting Malaga. This classic Spanish bar is famous for it’s sherry and sweet wine served straight from the barrel. The wine is a good price and they also serve tapas. It’s the oldest bar in Malaga and has an atmosphere to match.
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Best Coffee in Malaga
Delicotte Specialty Coffee & Tea
An artisanal cafe that prides itself on sourcing the finest organic coffee beans and premium tea leaves. The cafe’s knowledgeable baristas are passionate about their craft and are always eager to share their expertise with customers.
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Next Level Specialty Coffee
Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up or a midday treat, Next Level Specialty Coffee serves delightful coffee and super fresh food.
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Brief History of Malaga
- Malaga City has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. It was first settled by the Phoenicians around 770 BC and was known as Malaka. The city then became an important trading port for the Phoenicians and later, the Romans.
- During the Roman period, Malaga City flourished and the Roman Theatre was built. This well-preserved theatre is one of the most important archaeological sites in the city and offers a glimpse into the ancient past.
- In the 8th century, the Moors arrived and ruled over Malaga for nearly 800 years. They left their mark on the city with the construction of the Alcazaba castle, a Moorish fortress that still stands today. The Alcazaba offers stunning views of the city and is well worth a visit.
- In recent history, Malaga City was heavily affected by the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s. The city suffered bombings and extensive damage but has since been rebuilt and restored.
Tips for Travelling with Kids in Malaga
Traveling with kids can be a rewarding experience, and Malaga City offers plenty of family-friendly activities to keep children entertained. The city is home to several parks and playgrounds where kids can run, play, and have fun. Parque de Malaga is a popular choice, with its spacious green areas, fountains, and playgrounds. Another great option is Parque de la Paloma, which features a lake, animal enclosures, and a mini train ride.
Malaga City is also known for its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for families. La Malagueta Beach is a spacious sandy beach with calm waters, making it ideal for children. There are also several beachfront restaurants and cafes where families can enjoy a meal or a snack.
For a fun and educational experience, families can visit the Interactive Museum of Music. This museum offers a hands-on approach to learning about music and allows children to explore different instruments and play their own tunes.
Family-Friendly Activities in Malaga
In addition to the parks and beaches, Malaga City offers a wide range of family-friendly activities. The city is home to several interactive museums that are perfect for kids. The Automobile and Fashion Museum is a popular choice, with its collection of vintage cars and fashion exhibits. The Pompidou Centre also offers a range of interactive exhibits that are sure to engage children.
Families can also visit the Castillo de Gibralfaro, a medieval fortress that offers stunning views of the city. Kids can explore the castle’s ramparts and learn about its history. The nearby Alcazaba is another great option, with its beautiful gardens and historic architecture.
How to get to Malaga
Malaga City is easily accessible by air and train. The city is served by Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, which is located approximately 9 km from the city centre.
From the airport: visitors can take a bus, taxi or train to the city centre.
For those traveling by train, Maria Zambrano Train Station is the main train station in Malaga City. It is located in the city centre and offers high-speed train connections to other major cities in Spain, including Madrid and Barcelona.
In Malaga city: getting around is easy on foot and there is a well-connected public transportation system. The city has an extensive bus network that covers most areas, as well as a metro system that connects the city with the suburbs. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through Uber or Bolt.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Malaga?
The number of days you need in Malaga depends on your itinerary and what you want to explore. However, a minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience the city and its attractions. This will give you enough time to visit the main sights, explore the old town and enjoy some beach time! I would recommend using Malaga as a base if you want to explore the wider region of Andalusia and visit Granada, Cordoba or Seville.
When is the best time to go to Malaga?
The best time to visit Malaga is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. The summer months (July and August) are peak season, with high temperatures and crowded beaches. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Malaga Fair.
Where is Malaga?
Malaga is located in the region of Andalusia, in southern Spain. It is situated on the Costa del Sol, a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather.
Is there an airport in Malaga?
Yes, Malaga has its own international airport called Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport. The airport is well-connected with major cities in Europe and offers a wide range of international flights. It is the travel hub of the Costa del Sol region.
Any tips for first-time visitors to Malaga?
Note that as with a lot of Spain, the city follows a siesta culture with many shops and attractions closing for a few hours in the afternoon. It’s also common to dine late in the evening, with restaurants often not opening for dinner until 8 or 9 pm.
Is Malaga safe?
Malaga is considered a safe city for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, especially in tourist areas. However, it is always advisable to take basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
Is Malaga expensive?
Malaga offers a range of options for different budgets but is generally known but being an affordable part of Spain. The cost of living in Malaga is generally lower compared to other major cities in Europe, making it an affordable destination for budget travellers. Visitors can find a variety of accommodation, dining options and attractions to suit their budget.
What currency is used in Malaga?
The currency used in Malaga, as well as throughout Spain, is the euro. It is recommended to exchange currency at a bank or use ATMs to get the best exchange rates. Many places in Malaga also accept credit cards and mobile payment options, making it easy to go cashless.
