tourist attractions in malaga spain

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.

La Concepción Historical Botanical Gardens Malaga

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

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

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

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

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

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,

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

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: June 9, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get to Málaga

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Málaga Cathedral.

Getting Around Málaga Spain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Málaga

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

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

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

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

Málaga Sunset.

What to Do in Málaga Spain

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

1. Visit the Alcazaba

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alcazaba courtyard.

2. See the Roman Theater

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

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

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

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

Save the location of the Roman Theater on Google Maps .

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

3. Climb to the top of the Cathedral

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

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

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

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

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

Save the location of the cathedral on Google Maps .

4. Take in the views at the Gibralfaro

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

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

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

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

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

Add the location to your Google Maps .

Views from the Gibralfaro.

5. Picasso Museum

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

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

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

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

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

Malaga city streets.

6. Málaga Museum

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

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

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

7. Palmeral de Las Sorpresas

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

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

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

Málaga harbor after dark.

8. Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga

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

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

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

Save the location of the Carmen Thyssen Museum here.

9. Mercado Central de Atarazanas

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

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

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

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

Save the location of the market on Google Maps .

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

10. Eat at a Local Chiringuito

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

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

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

Chiringuito Mediterraneo
Chiringuito Picasso
Chiringuito Tropicana

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

12. Explore the Soho Neighborhood

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

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

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

One of the many beautiful beaches in Malaga.

13. Check out the Beaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can read more about them on their website here .

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

15. Hike the Caminito del Rey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Watch the Best Things to Do in Málaga Video

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The capital of the Costa del Sol is reinventing itself

Alcazaba fortress in Malaga

Parque de Málaga park

Carmen Thyssen Museum in Malaga

Málaga Roman Theatre

Malaga Cathedral

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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23 Best Things to do in Malaga, Spain

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).