tourist information malaga

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The capital of the Costa del Sol is reinventing itself

Parque de Málaga park

Málaga Roman Theatre

Alcazaba fortress in Malaga

Malaga Cathedral

Soho Málaga - the Art District

Collection of the Russian Museum in Malaga

Pompidou Centre Malaga

Carmen Thyssen Museum in Malaga

Picasso Museum 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

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

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

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

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

Let’s plan your trip!

1. The Alcazaba of Malaga

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Must-see attractions in Málaga

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…

Museo de Málaga

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

Castillo de Gibralfaro

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

Paseo de España

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

Centre Pompidou Málaga

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

Playa de la Malagueta

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

Teatro Romano

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

Casa Natal de Picasso

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

Centro de Arte Contemporáneo

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

Museo del Vidrio y Cristal

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

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

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

Alameda Principal

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

Museo Revello de Toro

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

Museo de Arte Flamenco

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

Mercado Atarazanas

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

Museo Interactivo de la Música Málaga

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

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

Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares

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

Mirador Princess

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

Sala de Exposiciones

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

Museo Jorge Rando

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

Museo Aula del Mar

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

Playa de Pedregalejo

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

Playa el Palo

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

More destinations you need to see

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• Almería y su Entorno
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Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas

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Province of Malaga

• Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
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• El Aljarafe
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Mezquita de Córdoba

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Muelle de las Carabelas

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Andalusia's Natural Treasures

Cerro del Hierro

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Tinto River

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Sierra Nevada

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• Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info
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• Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
• Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar
• Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería
• Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres
• Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez
• Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora
• Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
• Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales
• Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz
• Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera
• Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema
• Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno
• Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir
• La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba)
• Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato
• La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética
• Los Pedroches Los Pedroches Los Pedroches Los Pedroches
• Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada
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• Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero
• Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno
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• Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva)
• Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos
• Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado
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• Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina
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• Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza
• Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén
• Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
• Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno
• Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental
• Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno
• Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
• Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce
• El Aljarafe El Aljarafe El Aljarafe El Aljarafe
• La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir
• La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir
• Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno
• Sierra Norte Sierra Norte Sierra Norte Sierra Norte
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• Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info
• Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol
• Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz
• Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva
• Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical
• Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches
• Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities
• Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star
• Recipes Recipes Recipes Recipes
• Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf
• Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt
• Live . Live . Live . Live . Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info - +info - +info - +info - +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info
• Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . With the family +info With the family +info With the family +info With the family +info - +info - +info - +info - +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info
• Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info
• How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Practical information +info Practical information +info Practical information +info Practical information +info
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• Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info
• Things to do . Things to do . Things to do . Things to do . Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Events +info Events +info Events +info Events +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info News +info News +info News +info News +info
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The Malaga Municipal Tourist Information Office (Head Office) is situated right in the heart of the historic centre, in Plaza de la Marina square. The facilities are over 200 square metres and you will find information on the attractions and tourist companies in Malaga . Here you can also collect the audio guides that the Department of Tourism offers to explore the city's main sights.

This office also houses the Foreign Tourist Service (SATE) , where tourists can go if they lose their identification documents or have any problems.

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Aula del Mar de Málaga - Museo Alboranía

Málaga Centro

Málaga Costa del Sol Provincial Tourist Board

Málaga María Zambrano (Vialia)

Turismo de andalucía.

Museo del Vino Málaga

Málaga Aeropuerto

Ecomuseo Lagar de Torrijos

Andalusia with pride

Costa del Sol - Malaga

La Axarquía

Medium-Sized Towns

Practical guide of Andalusia

EXPLORE ANDALUSIA

• Discover Andalusia
• The best sun in the world
• 100% Natural
• Andalusia flavor

PLACES TO VISIT

• Almería
• Cádiz
• Córdoba
• Jaén
• Málaga

EXPERIENCES

• Active turism
• Conferences and Congresses
• Touristic Routes

TRAVEL PLAN

• Accommodations
• Guided Activities Companies
• Tour Operators and Travel Agencies

• Cadiz Travel Guide
• Cordoba Province
• Granada Travel Guide
• Jaen Province
• Malaga Travel Guide
• Sevilla Travel Guide
• Andalucian Cuisine

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Malaga

Welcome to the sunny and vibrant city of Malaga, the gateway to Andalucia and Costa del Sol! Malaga is a perfect blend of rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning beaches. As the birthplace of the famous artist Pablo Picasso, the city is also renowned for its art scene and cultural experiences, being also home to the only foreign branch of the famous Centre Pompidou.

Malaga has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, soaking up the sun on the Mediterranean coast, or indulging in delicious Spanish cuisine.

In this ultimate travel guide to Malaga we will go on a journey around the city and the region, discovering all the wonderful sights and experiences that you can have here.

Malaga Itineraries:

These are my comprehensive guides to exploring the charming city of Malaga. These Malaga itineraries have been designed to help you make the most of your time in the city, whether you are here for a quick weekend getaway or a longer holiday. There are plenty of things to do in Malaga, so I’ve gathered the best of them in these itineraries, grouping the attractions by distance, and adding recommendations of hotels and restaurants which, as a local, I have personally tested.

Get ready to discover Malaga!

The Best One Day in Malaga Itinerary Written by a Local

Malaga is a perfect blend of Moorish architecture, modern art, sandy beaches, delicious food, and [...]

2 Days in Malaga Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Malaga

This 2 days in Malaga itinerary has all the best activities in Malaga that will [...]

Things to Do in Malaga in Winter Recommended by a Local

Visiting Malaga in winter is a great idea, especially if you are looking for warm [...]

The Best Things to Do in Malaga:

I have prepared guides on the top attractions and experiences in Malaga that you won’t want to miss during your stay here. From exploring the Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro Castle to marvelling at the works of Picasso at the museum dedicated to his life and art, from soaking up the sun on one of the Malaga’s beautiful sandy beaches to discovering the fantastic food scene of the city, there is something from everyone in Malaga.

Get ready to discover the best things to do in Malaga with my guides on this sunny city.

The Best Museums in Malaga You Must Visit

Malaga has always been a city for artists. For centuries artists have been drawn to [...]

15 Of The Best Free Things To Do In Malaga

Malaga, the sun kissed capital of Costa del Sol, is a wonderful place to visit [...]

The Best Views of Malaga

Whenever my friends visit me in Malaga, I always take them up Mirador de Gibrafaro [...]

The Best Beaches in Malaga:

Malaga is a paradise for sunshine lovers, with over 160 kilometres of coastline and two beautiful urban beaches. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun, take a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean Sea, or try your hand at some water sports, the beaches in and around Malaga have it all.

In my guide on the best beaches in Malaga I highlighted some of the best seaside locations, complete with insider tips on where to find the best amenities, food, and drink. Grab your sunscreen and beach towel, and get ready to discover the stunning coastline of Malaga!

The Best Beaches near Malaga – My Absolute Favourites

Calling Malaga home for over two years, I have truly been spoiled when it came [...]

Special Days in Malaga:

Easter and Christmas are taken very seriously in Malaga, both being marked by spectacular festivities that shouldn’t be missed. These celebrations are offering a unique glimpse into the local culture, and they are both great times to visit Malaga. In the guides below I will tell you what to expect from spending Christmas or Easter in Malaga, where to find the best parades and how to enjoy the festive seasons alongside the locals.

The Holy Week Malaga: Celebrating Easter in Malaga

Easter and the Holy Week in Malaga are an unforgettable experience.  Catholicism runs deep in [...]

How to Spend Christmas in Malaga

If you’re planning on visiting the Costa del Sol during the winter months, then try [...]

Malaga Food Guides:

Malaga is not just a vibrant city but also a great place to try delicious food that reflects its rich history. In these food guides for Malaga I am highlighting the typical dishes such as boquerones and espetos, as well as the best places to try them.

Join me a on culinary journey through the streets of Malaga to discover the mouth-watering flavours the city has to offer.

A Local’s Guide to What to Eat in Malaga

The cuisine in Malaga is characterised by Mediterranean flavours, which bring together fresh ingredients to [...]

The Best Fish Dishes in Andalucia

The best way to enjoy a trip to Andalucia is at a slow pace. The [...]

A Complete Guide to Vegan Food in Andalucia

The food in Andalucia is full of flavour, with delicious fish dishes on the coast [...]

The Traditional Spanish Breakfast – What to Eat for Breakfast in Spain

Are you curious about what people eat for breakfast in Spain? Or which are the [...]

Top 20 Vegetarian Spanish Tapas to Try in Andalucia

Being a vegetarian travelling in Spain doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the delicious tapas [...]

Transport In and Around Malaga

Whether you’re traveling from the airport to your hotel, exploring the city’s top sights, or venturing out to the surrounding areas, there are plenty of transport options available to make your journey in and around Malaga smooth and hassle-free.

How to Get From Malaga Airport to Malaga

Malaga Airport is the main gateway to the Costa del Sol and Andalucia, one of [...]

How to Hire a Car in Malaga – Save Money and Have Peace of Mind

As someone who lived in Andalucia for the past few years, I know how important it is [...]

How to Get From Malaga Airport to Fuengirola

Malaga airport is a busy hub for travellers visiting Costa del Sol, and Fuengirola is [...]

Day Trips From Malaga

Whilst the Malaga itself is a fantastic destination for a long weekend, there is so much more to explore in the surrounding area. From picturesque white villages to beautiful natural scenery, the region around Malaga is filled with places waiting to be discovered. In this section of my travel guide to Malaga I am highlighting the places which make some of the best day trips from Malaga, complete with insider tips on how to get there, what to see and where to eat.

These day trips from Malaga are no longer than two hours away from the city.

The Best Day Trips from Malaga: An Insider’s Guide

Malaga is one of those perfect cities that has everything for everyone. It’s impossible to [...]

A Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Nerja

Nerja is one of my favourite places in whole of the Costa del Sol. Not [...]

How to Visit Colomares Castle in Benalmadena – Everything You Need To Know

Colomares Castle is a fairytale hidden gem in Andalucia, a place where you would expect [...]

The Best Things to Do in Antequera

When you think of how small it is, you couldn’t imagine that there are so [...]

Fuente de Piedra – Where to See Pink Flamingos in Spain

Fuente de Piedra is a fantastic places to see pink flamingos in Spain, and a [...]

The Best Things to Do in Ronda on a Fantastic Day Trip

Many people who visit Ronda on a day trip tend to stick to the area [...]

Fantastic Things to Do in Fuengirola, Written by a Local

I have called Fuengirola my home for the past few years. It’s a lovely Spanish [...]

White Villages Near Malaga

The whitewashed villages near Malaga are a must-visit for anyone travelling here. These villages, also called pueblos blancos, have pretty houses, narrow streets and stunning mountain backdrops, just like in a postcard.  

The white villages are not just beautiful, but visiting them will also give you a glimpse into the Andalucian history and culture. Most of these villages were built on top of hills and acted as defence fortresses against the invaders coming from the land or the sea.

Today, these white villages near Malaga are wonderful places to visit.

The Most Beautiful White Villages in Andalucia You Must Visit on Your Next Trip to Spain

Andalucia is one of the most culturally rich places in Spain and part of the [...]

A Charming Escape: The Best Things to Do In Mijas Pueblo, Andalucia

Mijas Pueblo has been my happy place ever since I moved to Andalucia. It is [...]

The Best Things to Do in Setenil de las Bodegas, Andalucia, Spain

Setenil de las Bodegas is a unique white village of Andalucia because of its unusual [...]

The Best Things to Do in Olvera, Andalucia, Spain

  Olvera is one of the most beautiful white villages in Andalucia, located on top [...]

The Most Instagrammable Places in Mijas Pueblo [With Map]

Mijas Pueblo is one of the most accessible white villages in Andalucia, only a 30 [...]

Hiking in Malaga

These are my guides to hiking near Malaga. The city is privileged to be located to close to some wonderful mountains, offering plenty of trails with all grades of difficulty. It doesn’t matter if you are a professional hiker or just want to enjoy a day out in nature, I have something for everyone. In these guides I will also tell you how to prepare and if the trails are ok or not to visit in summer (when it gets really hot).

Hiking in Malaga, in Sierra de Mijas: Pico de Mijas

Hiking to Pico de Mijas is one of the most rewarding things that you can do [...]

What to Expect From Hiking El Torcal de Antequera

Hiking El Torcal de Antequera is a must do on a trip to Andalucia. Located [...]

Everything You Need to Know about the Caminito del Rey Walk

My first encounter with the Caminito del Rey walk was about 15 years ago. Back [...]

Recent Posts:

In this section you will find the latest articles about Malaga, on the blog. Enjoy this Malaga travel guide and don’t be shy to drop me a line in the contact section if you need extra information. Enjoy Malaga!

The Best Day Trips from Marbella Recommended by a Local

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Is Marbella Worth Visiting? A Local Recommends

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How to Take a Marbella to Ronda Day Trip

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The Most Beautiful Towns in Malaga You Must Visit

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Which Is the Nearest Airport to Marbella?

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Malaga or Marbella? Which Is Best For Your Summer Holiday?

Malaga or Marbella? Which is the best destination for your summer holiday? In this article [...]

Welcome to Malaga!

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Noche en Blanco in Malaga 2024

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Best places to stay in Malaga

Malaga offers a good choice of accommodation to suit all tastes and pockets. The selection below is based on recommendations from friends and locals. Unless otherwise stated, they all offer free wifi. Prices stated are for a double room in low season. Expect to pay at least a third more in high season, even more at Easter and Malaga Fair in August. Breakfast tends to be expensive and if it isn’t included in the price your best bet is to go to a nearby café or bar.

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Apartamentos El Cenachero

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Vincci Larios Diez

Hilton Garden Inn Malaga

Planning a trip, recommended reading.

5 ways Malaga can change your life for good

5 keys to buying and renovating property in Malaga at a distance

How to enjoy the best contemporary art in Malaga (and in your own home)

Why take private Spanish classes in Malaga

Easter in Malaga 2025

Planning to visit Malaga ?

All you need for a short break in malaga.

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21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Málaga

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

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

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

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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This Is the Sunniest City in Europe — and It's the Birthplace of Pablo Picasso

Here's what you need to know to plan a perfect trip to Málaga, Spain.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Neighborhoods to visit, best time to visit, how to get there.

• Getting Around

Alberto Manuel Urosa Toledano/Getty Images

Málaga, Spain is a sun-seeker's paradise. The city along the nation's southern coast is the sunniest place in Europe , getting more than 280 sunshine hours a month, which works out to more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. Málaga sits on the aptly named Costa del Sol, or the "sun coast," but this city has a lot more going for it than just the sun. It's also a cultural paradise and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. 

"Málaga is a fantastic destination because it has a Mediterranean climate. Its winters are mild, and the summers are nice and warm. It has a sometimes-overlooked history rich in Roman history and Moorish influence. There are many cultural activities to do, such as the Picasso Museum and flamenco shows," Kristin Espinar, founder of Must See Spain , shared. And, as with the rest of Spain,  Espinar added, "Málaga has fantastic cuisine — especially fresh local seafood and tapas. Don't miss local chiringuitos , which are seaside seafood restaurants that locals flock to." 

Ready to explore this fantastic city? Here's what you need to know about visiting Málaga, Spain. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Stay at Finca Cortesín, voted the top hotel in Spain and Portugal by our readers. 
• Pablo Picasso was born here — visit the Picasso Museum to learn more about the artist’s life.
• Spend a day on beautiful La Malagueta Beach. 
• Stroll around the historic center of the city. 
• Visit during the spring or fall to enjoy pleasant weather with fewer crowds. 

Courtesy of Finca Cortesi­n Hotel, Golf & Spa

Best Hotels & Resorts

Gran hotel miramar.

Spend a few days in the lap of luxury with a stay at the Gran Hotel Miramar . The historic palace has been turned into a five-star hotel that looks out onto the Mediterranean. Each of its rooms is decked out with plush furnishings in a soothing natural palette, making the panoramic views the star of the show. The hotel's spa is equally alluring and uses local ingredients for a unique Andalusian touch. 

Finca Cortesín

In 2023, Finca Cortesín was named the top hotel in Spain and Portugal by Travel + Leisure readers in the World's Best Awards . Readers fell hard for its white-washed walls, colorful rooms, and gorgeous sea views — not to mention its fantastic Cabell B. Robinson–designed golf course. Here, guests can play a full 18 and then unwind in the spa, which comes with science-forward treatments like oxygenated facials. 

Palacio Solecio

Have one more regal stay at the Palacio Solecio , an 18th-century palace-turned-hotel. The hotel is as glamorous as you'd imagine, with four-poster beds, floor-to-ceiling windows and doors that open to spacious patios, and deep soaking tubs in the bathrooms. The hotel's central location makes for easy access to some of the city's most sought-after sites, including Santiago Church, just a few feet away. 

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Picasso Museum

Explore Pablo Picasso's past and his artistic genius, and discover a few other fantastic artists, at the Picasso Museum inside the Buenavista Palace. Here, guests can explore Picasso's life through his 144 works on rotation and check out the museum's exhibitions, including works by María Blanchard and Joel Meyerowitz. 

Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle

Surround yourself with Málaga's history during a visit to the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle . The historic castle is a Moorish fortress that takes up an astonishing 21,310 square meters.  "Must-see attractions really come down to the preferences of the visitors, but the Alcazaba — and nearby Gibralfaro Castle and Roman Theatre — are some of the most highly visited attractions for good reason," Jess Rodley, the bookings director at Andorra Escapes who also travels to Málaga for her summer vacations, shared. "Filled with history, these sites are exceptionally well-preserved."

Mercado Central de Atarazanas

Sample some of Málaga's best flavors with a visit to the Mercado Central de Atarazanas . The market, now located inside a 19th-century building, dates back to the 14th century. Here, travelers and locals alike can mix and mingle over the local meats, cheeses, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. The market is open every Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Carmen Thyssen Museum

Málaga is absolutely spoiled with culture, so make sure to visit at least two museums. Once you hit the Picasso Museum, make your way to the Carmen Thyssen Museum , housed in a restored 16th-century palace. Here, guests can gaze upon 19th-century Spanish paintings, with a special focus on Andalusian art.

La Malagueta Beach

After looking at all the gorgeous human-made art, it's time to look at some created by Mother Nature with a visit to La Malagueta Beach . The beach is just 10 minutes from the city center, making it easy to stop by or spend an entire day. There are also plenty of beachside bars and restaurants to enjoy while you're there.

Centro Histórico

Centro Histórico is the heart of the city. Here, travelers can weave their way through the bustling, narrow streets, check out the historic plazas, and shop in local stores. It's also where you'll find the Málaga Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum — all within a few blocks. 

La Malagueta

Make your way to La Malagueta, the city’s beachside neighborhood, for a little surf and sand with a splash of culture. While here, visit the Pompidou Centre for a colorful afternoon filled with modern art.

La Victoria

Get a local perspective with a visit to La Victoria , one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Located just north of the city center at the foot of Mount Gibralfaro, this area is well-known for its beauty, traditional homes, local tapas bars, and street art. 

The best time to visit Málaga is over the summer season. However, here, the summer extends from late spring into autumn (from May through October). This is when the weather is at its prime and when everyone is out and about enjoying all that fantastic sun. Travelers can also expect plenty of fun summer festivals too, including the Málaga Fair in August, a week-long party that honors all the best parts of Andalusian culture. That said, even if you can't come during the summer, there are plenty of other times worth a visit. 

"The shoulder seasons are a great time to visit Málaga. I recommend traveling in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November)," Espinar said. "The temperatures will be mild, you’ll find smaller crowds, and you’ll have more energy for exploring the city and sights."

Rodley also advocates for the shoulder seasons in April and May and late September: "Visiting during the springtime, you can catch the gorgeous blossoms and flowering jacarandas of the parks and gardens while enjoying the moderate temperatures and fewer crowds when exploring the city and surrounding areas," Rodley explained. "Align your trip with Easter and you'll be able to experience the color, culture, and festivities of Holy Week parades. A visit in September is perfect for wine tours and sightseeing with fewer tourists. At this time of year, it may still be warm enough to enjoy the beach without having to contend for a space on the sand." And, as Espinar added, "If you choose to go in the winter (December to February), you’ll find the benefits of having milder and warmer weather than the rest of Spain. There will be fewer tourists and you’ll enjoy the city. Málaga also has stunning Christmas lights displays, which makes it a great December destination." 

Darren Robb/Getty Images

To visit this sunny destination, you can fly into Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport , one of the largest airports in Spain. The airport offers plenty of direct flights to cities around Europe and connections to cities around the world via airlines like LATAM, Air France, Easy Jet, and Emirates. The airport is also just a few miles outside of the city center, making it a convenient jumping-off point. 

Visitors coming from spots like Madrid and Barcelona may decide to drive — and that's a fantastic idea, as you can drive along the Mediterranean on the AP-7 for a scenic journey. 

Travelers can also get to Málaga by taking the train to the María Zambrano station . Trains run regularly from Madrid; the trip takes about three hours and costs around $75. 

Getting Around 

Renting a car is a great option for those who want to get out and explore beyond the city's bounds and see more of the Costa del Sol region. Car rentals are available at the airport and numerous locations in the city with major operators like Avis, Budget, and Dollar Car Rental. 

Málaga also has a robust public transit system that guests can take advantage of during their stay, including both buses and a metro line, which covers most of the city. Travelers can get a single ticket or travel passes, which are easy to recharge online . There are plentiful taxis and Ubers available throughout Málaga, too.

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City Centre and old town in Malaga

Picturesquely situated in a bay surrounded by mountains and bounded by the rivers Guadalmedina and Guadalhorce, Malaga city with its two thousand-eight hundred years of history is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Walking by the old town is a experience you should not miss.

The city experienced the greatest civilizations of the Mediterranean, from the Phoenicians and the Greeks to the Romans, thanks to the strategic location of the port, an important site along the trade routes since ancient times.

This introduction is to say that Malaga is not only the capital of the Costa del Sol, a destination known throughout the world since the beginning of the tourist boom in this area, where the climate, the sea, beaches and golf courses represent an irresistible attraction for national and international tourists. If you plan to spend your holidays in Malaga or surroundings, dedicate at least one day to visit the city.

Guide and map is recommended for visiting the city

The centre of Malaga is a place where you can spend hours and return to visit without ever getting bored; there’s so much to see that it’s impossible to even enumerate. Malaga is rich in culture, modernity and historical monuments. It is recommended the use of a tourist guide or a monuments/street map for getting the most from your visit, check our resources page for maps and guides .

It’s a cosmopolitan city, capital of the Costa del Sol and with a history that dates back to the Phoenician times when it was founded , and later on passed onto the Romans and Arabs, who left us part of their culture and constructions. Malaga was finally conquered by the Catholic Kings in 1487, leaving us an incomplete cathedral due to the lack of funds back then, known as ‘La Manquita’.

Of its even further past we must mention several monuments to visit, highlighting the Alcazaba Arabic Castle and the Gibralfaro castle with beautiful gardens located by the coast.

Apart from the above mentioned, Malaga is the city of Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, and the square where he used to play as a child still exists today, as well as his house which is now a museum that we can visit during our stay in Malaga.

Malaga has the second biggest port in Spain, recently modernised and is now also a great place to spend a day’s shopping.

If we visit Malaga we cannot go without visiting the surrounding villages, like Torremolinos for example, a well-known and popular touristic town that had its boom in the 1960’s and where an endless number of movies were filmed. Visiting its villages we’ll discover more of Malaga, as well as enjoying a wide variety of services and attractions for the tourist: golf lessons, theatre, flamenco, restaurants, tapas bars, etc..

The infrastructure makes Malaga an ideal city to make it our starting point from where to start exploring Andalusia, with great access by road to Granada, Seville and Cordoba, that will make life easier if we decide to hire a car in Malaga, or if we travel in our own vehicle.

Malaga airport , also known as the Costa del Sol airport, is international and receives flights from USA, Asia and from almost all the European capitals.

Things to do in the old town

If you like football, you can watch a match between the Malaga F.C and another football team at the Rosaleda Stadium . The official website where you can see the league table and the latest news related to Malaga is malagacf.com (In english)

The Malaga Fair is another of the big events of the year in Malaga. It’s on for about a week as from the 15th of August and is divided into two areas: the centre of Malaga during the day, and the fairground on the outskirts of the city in the evenings till early hours of the morning, where you’ll find the rides and many stands of all kinds.

In the fairground we’ll find the traditional fair huts with a wide variety of music and in some of them we’ll be able to enjoy live flamenco shows and some delicious tapas.

In Malaga there are so many things to do that it’s almost impossible to list them all, for those who enjoy history, nature, art or sport, or simply for those who enjoy a good meal. The following list here below is a brief enumeration of a few recommendations of what to do in Malaga :

• A visit to the Gibralfaro Castle and to the Roman Theatre next door.
• The Alcazaba is also well worth a visit.
• The Cathedral of Malaga offers a beautiful architecture that we must see for ourselves.
• Malaga port and its shopping centre in the ‘Muelle 1’.
• Plaza de la Merced, the Picasso foundation and museum.
• Picasso Foundation
• Picasso Museum
• The CAC Malaga (the modern art museum).

Malaga history

Malaka, as it was known in the olden days, was occupied from remote times, proved by the remains found in Antequera, the paintings discovered in the Treasure Cave in Rincon de la Victoria, or the ceramics found in Nerja. The Phoenicians were the founders of a commercial route from the century VIII b.C. using the natural port on the foothill of Gibralfaro as a port and taking advantage of the numerous silver and copper deposits. We are developing the history of Malaga , keep checking out our blog for the latest updates.

Map of Malaga

Malaga, Andalusia’s main tourist destination, is located by the Mediterranean sea in the south of Spain. Limited to the east by the stretch of Gibraltar and to the west by Granada, surrounded by mountains that give a spectacular view of Sierra Nevada in contrast with the Malaga coast.

Use the controls to move around the map of Malaga or zoom in and out for a more general view. You can also change the type of view of the map, to either satellite or terrain.

Weather in Malaga

Due to its demographic situation, the city of Malaga and its coasts have an exclusive microclimate in Andalusia, wrapped up by the Mediterranean, its temperatures are never as low as in the rest of Andalusia, and the temperature in summer is more fresh and humid than in the interior.

Below you can see a weather forecast for today:

Nightlife in the city centre

After the sun goes down, you can continue to enjoy what the city has to offer. From a quiet tapas bar to a raving club to dance all night. The city has many discos to choose from. We are sure you will take many memorable moments back home with you.

The nightlife in Malaga mainly takes place in various areas and with reasonable prices compared to Puerto Banus, Puerto Marina or other places along the coast. The price of a drink in Malaga depends on the place you choose, ranging from 3.50 euros up to 6 euros in the more excusive places.

Here below we analyse the main places to blend in and experience the Malaga night:

• Plaza Uncibay Here is where most of the nightlife goes on, including the surroundings of the Malaga Cathedral and the streets of the square. The style is more of bars and pubs that aren’t exactly next to each other, but definitely within a short walking distance from one another.
• La Malagueta If what you are looking for is a more modern atmosphere, with modern places for the youngsters, there are plenty of bars, pubs and discos amongst which you’ll find the most exclusive places in Malaga, as well as a wide variety of restaurants and bars for a typical Andalusian meal.
• El Palo and Pedregalejo A more cosmopolitan area due to the presence of a large amount of foreigners that assist to the Spanish schools in the area. There is a wide range of places to have a great time, such as the tapa bar areas, beach bars and hotspots to enjoy the Malaga nights.

Hotels and apartments in the centre of Malaga

Here below we have listed a few of the most demanded hotels in Malaga:

• Hotel Málaga Palacio 4 stars
• Hotel NH in Málaga , a 4-star hotel that’s very well-known in the centre of Malaga
• Silken Puerta Blanca
• Hotel Barcelo in Málaga with 4 stars

There is also a great variety of comfortable hotels in Malaga, like the Hotel Vincci.

You’ll be able to find 5-star hotels in Malaga as well as plenty of hotel offers if you are looking to save money during your stay. Malaga has a lot to offer and we hope you enjoy your stay with all our tips.

Malaga city video

Discover in the video below the crowded Larios street, one of the most famous streets in Malaga.

City centre beaches

The beaches of Malaga city have a length of about 15 km; From East to West we can find the beaches of El Candado, Las Acacias, Baños del Carmen, La Malagueta, San Andres, Mercy, and Guadalhorce Guadalmar. The connection between the promenade of Antonio Machado and the western part of the Costa del Sol is currently under development.

Here's a brief summary of the most popular beaches in Malaga:

• Del Candado beach :Located next to the marina of the same name, is a dark sand beach with showers, sun beds and umbrellas but no public toilets.
• Las Acacias beach : Pedregalejo beach, with disabled access and a high level of occupancy during high season.
• Baños del Carmen : Stony beach with a low level of occupancy. With few services.
• La Malagueta beach : Dark sandy beach very popular within the locals, high level of occupancy. Not accessible for disabled people.
• San Andrés beach : Dark sandy beach popular within the locals and with an high occupancy level. Also has disabled access.
• La Misericordia beach : Dark sand beach on the outskirts of the town, occupancy level is medium and the beach does not have too many services.
• Guadalhorce beach : Dark sand beach, isolated, with little influx of visitors. There are no services neither disabled access.
• Guadalmar beach : Dark sand beach,it has average occupancy and is next to the San Julian beach. It has a nudist area and marked access.

Beaches of Malaga have many blue flags awarded by the European Union, which guarantees the quality of the sand and water that can be found. If you want the link below you can learn more about the beaches on the Costa del Sol

Airport to Malaga city

The city of Malaga is the neural center of the Costa del Sol and worth the visit. Although most tourists tend to choose the coast as a place to stay for their vacation, the city of Malaga has a great infrastructure developed for tourism.

• Just in the arrivals area of the airport you can take the bus from the airport to Malaga city centre , which is the number 19 and make stops at the bus station in Malaga , and Paseo del Parque, which is the last stop and let you in the hearth of the city.
• You can choose to take a taxi from the airport to Malaga . Taxis are located in the arrivals area of Malaga airport.
• There is a train station near the airport, the train links with Malaga city center and main station Maria Zambrano.
• Car hire Malaga may be a good option for transportation if you plan to move within the city.
• Transfers from Malaga airport to Malaga is a fast and comfortable way if you don´t need to rent a car and you need a vehicle for many people.

Pictures of city centre

Information about Malaga old town

• Ayuntamiento Malaga AVENIDA CERVANTES, 4, 29016 Málaga, Spain +34 952 13 50 00
• Malaga Wikipedia

Parking can be problematic in Malaga city centre . Spaces are scarce and it isn't very clear which areas are permitted for parking and at what times. If you are going to park downtown be wary of parking lot attendants asking for tips - most are not official and won't actually watch over your car. Your best bet is to ignore them, pretending you don't understand.

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Malaga, Spain: 16 Best Things to do on the Costa del Sol

Malaga, Spain : a beautiful city on the Costa del Sol (‘the sunshine coast’). Discover its range of architectural styles, bordered by sandy yellow beaches and smooth blue sea. Spend a few days here, shopping on the large boulevards, sightseeing in the historic center, swimming at the local beaches, and enjoying some of the many fantastic day trips you can take from the city. Enjoy all the top things to do in Malaga with this complete travel guide!

Things to do in Malaga

Malaga is a city with a little bit of everything. The old town is the heart and soul with its labyrinth of cobblestone streets. There’s a modern shopping center, wide boulevards, green parks, and a city beach.

Never far away are the looming mountains, home to the white villages of Andalusia , which make the perfect place for a day trip or a stopover on your Andalusia road trip . We recommend staying 3 nights to enjoy all the top things to do in Malaga or a bit longer if you want to explore the surrounding areas.

Did you know?: The Old Town of Malaga is car-free! This makes it the perfect place to wander and enjoy the historical buildings—each one as beautiful as the next. If you’re driving, you’ll have to park your car outside of this area.

1. Alcazaba de Málaga

The Alcazaba is the top thing to do in Malaga and one of the most popular sites. Similar to the Alhambra in Granada (although on a much smaller scale!), this impressive fortress sits on the hill overlooking the city. It was built as part of the Nasrid Kingdom in the 11th century—a period of Islamic rule in Spain.

The architecture is beautiful, with the typical Moorish archways, tilework, and gardens filled with fountains, orange trees, palms, and the smell of jasmine. Best of all, you’ll find some spectacular views over the city; it’s a beautiful place to spend a few hours away from the hustle and bustle.

If you want to learn more about the Moorish period, we recommend taking a tour of Alcazaba, where you’ll get to know more details about its long and fascinating history.

Entry Fee and Opening Times

The Alcazaba de Malaga is open during the Summer (April to October) from 9 AM – 8 PM and in Winter (November to March) from 9 AM – 6 PM. The last entry is always 45 minutes before closing, so make sure to leave plenty of time.

A ticket is 3.50 EUR (3.50 USD), or you can do a combined entry with the Castillo de Gibralfaro for 5.50 EUR (5.50 USD). Tickets are not available online; you must buy them in person at the entrance. Please note that there may be a queue on weekends and in the high season.

On Sunday, after 2 PM, you can enter the site for free!

Here are all your hotel options in Malaga.

2. Castillo de Gibralfaro

The Castillo de Gibralfaro (built in the 8th century) is even higher than the Alcazaba and was used to house troops and protect the Alcazaba fortress. As you can imagine, the view up here is even better! What’s left of the castle are the ancient walls (you can walk on top of them in a circular loop). As you go, you’ll get a birdseye view of the bull arena and a few other important monuments in Malaga.

Hotels in Malaga 😴

Once you’re done, there’s even a cafe where you can get a refreshing drink or coffee before making your way down to the city. 

How to get to the Castillo de Gibralfaro

Even though you can see the Castillo from the Alcazaba, there is no direct path. You’ll have to leave the Alcazaba first and follow the road outside that goes uphill alongside the fort walls. It’s a 25-minute walk which has beautiful views all the way up. However, as it’s pretty steep, it’s maybe not a walk you’ll want to do in the hot summer months. You can take a bus or a rental car, as there is parking at the top. 

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Entry Fee and Opening Times: 3.50 EUR (3.50 USD) or a combined ticket with the Alcazaba for 5.50 EUR (5.50 USD). In the summer months, the Castillo is open 9 AM – 8 PM, and in the winter months until 6 PM.

3. Colomares Monument

Take a half-day trip to the Colomares Monument, an unusual castle dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his discovery of America. The building tells the story of Columbus’ discovery, represented by a building that looks like a ship.

Although it was only finished in the 90s, you would think it had been built much earlier from the design and the intricate constructional details. It also contains the smallest church in the world!

After you’ve looked around every picturesque corner, wander outside in the beautiful gardens, and enjoy the incredible views from up here on the hill. 

Tip: It’s best to visit in the late afternoon when it’s cooler as there’s no shade in the monument. You have to walk a hill back to the old town, so it’s best to drive if you’re visiting during the summer. 

Opening times and entry fee: 3 EUR (3 USD). Open Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM – 6 PM (in spring stays open to 8 PM). In the summer, it closes between 2 PM – 5 PM.

How to get to Colomares

The monument is located in the town of Benalmádena, which is reasonably big. We only saw one small area, which was beautiful, full of charming streets and lovely restaurants. We recommend La Cúpula Lounge or La Pala d’Oro Italian . 

To get to Benalmádena, it’s around 40 minutes by car from Malaga. You can take bus M-110 (40 MINS), which picks you up from the train station in Malaga. Or train C1 (towards Fuengirola) to station Benalmadena-Arroyo de la Miel). The trains leave roughly every 20 minutes.

4. Malaga Museum (Museo de Malaga)

Another top thing to do in Malaga is to visit the Malaga Museum, a former art museum that has now been combined with an archeological exhibit. The fine art collection is really well displayed with a vibrant colored background.

Most of the art is displayed without a glass front protection, so you can really admire the stunning colors! Find 2000 pieces in the fine arts collection, and discover the archeology section with over 15,000 pieces. 

Make sure to take some time to admire the building itself; from the outside, the entrance is surrounded by palm trees (it reminded us of being on a palm-tree-lined beach in Sri Lanka !).

Entrance fee: 1.50 EUR (1.50 USD). Free for EU citizens to visit.

5. Lagunillas Art Neighbourhood and Soho 

Continue the art theme by heading for the creative neighborhoods of Lagunillas and Soho—one of the top things to do in Malaga! In these neighborhoods, you’ll find murals and graffiti ornamenting the walls, giving it a wonderful colorful atmosphere.

This initiative was developed as part of a city project, where the local government funded the creation of artwork to modernize the area and increase tourism. This area’s young and fun vibe has also brought with it lots of new and trendy cafes and bars, for example, this great cafe Byoko . 

Join a tour or follow a map of all the best murals (you can find many online). 

6. Málaga Cathedral

Malaga Cathedral has to be one of the city’s most unique and beautiful buildings. This enormous cathedral is more reminiscent of a palace than a religious building, with soft domed shapes, dusky pink stone, and surrounding palm trees.

The Cathedral took 150 years to complete, meaning there are a lot of different architectural styles on show, from Baroque to Renaissance. Inside, you can discover its beauty, lit by hundreds of candles.

Most unusual is that the Cathedral only has one bell tower (most have two), as the second one was never built. This has led locals to refer to the building fondly as ‘La Manquita’, meaning ‘the one-armed lady’. The bell tower itself is 84 meters high, making it the second tallest bell tower in Spain (after Seville )!

Did you know: Malaga Cathedral offers visitors the exclusive opportunity to climb onto the roof of the building. Most religious buildings often have their bell towers open for visits. However, this allows you to go to the main flat top of the building, providing you with unobstructed panoramic views of the city. It’s 200 steps up—but it’s so worth it!

Entry Fee: 8 EUR (7.91 USD) for a general ticket or 12 EUR (11.87 USD), including a rooftop tour. You will receive a free sound guide, and there’s also a kid’s version too if you’re traveling as a family. Skip the line and book your guided tour to Malaga Cathedral .

Malaga is a coastal city, meaning there are plenty of wonderful beaches dotted along the coastline. One of the best things to do in Malaga if you’ve got some downtime is to visit one of the local beaches, relax on a sunbed and enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea after a hot day of sightseeing.

You’ll also find plenty of Chiringuitos (beach bars) along the sand, where you can enjoy some drinks as the sun goes down. Some of the best beaches in Malaga are:

• Playa de la Misericordia (please note that this is a city beach and looks onto a lot of industry) 
• Playa de La Malagueta (the nicest beach of them all) 
• Playa la Malagueta (long beach with city and mountain views)

8. Mercado de Atarazanas 

Is there anything better than enjoying the delights of a Spanish food market? The Mercado de Atarazanas in Malaga is no exception! Discover many stalls selling local fruits, veggies, spices, fish, meat, bread, and olives.

It’s a great place to eat and get among the hustle and bustle of the vendors. Like many places in Spain, the market closes at 2 PM (and is closed on Sundays), so make sure to visit in the morning (from 8 AM) to avoid disappointment. 

Not only is it a great place to eat, but the building itself is also beautiful. It’s a stunning iron and glass structure with colorful stained glass that covers a large portion of one side.

9. Málaga Park and Jardines de Puerta Oscura

There are many lovely parks in the city, and one of the top things to do in Malaga is to spend a few hours enjoying the beautiful plants, water features, and flowers. Among the trees, you’ll also see colorful birds, including bright green Parakeets. It’s the perfect place for a stroll and to enjoy the shade of the trees as you escape the heat on a hot day in the city. The two most famous parks in Malaga are Malaga Park and Jardines de Puerta Oscura.

10. Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes Málaga

If you want the ultimate relaxation on your trip, head for the Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes, a traditional Arab bathhouse in the heart of Malaga. Inside, discover beautiful rooms with baths and traditional Arab tilework and stonework. You can dip in different baths, enjoy the steam room, drink traditional tea, and even have a relaxing massage. The entry includes 90-minute access and includes a massage. 

Book your ticket for the Hammam in Malaga

11. Picasso Museum

No visit to Malaga would be complete without a visit to the Picasso Museum. The famous artist was born in Malaga, and this fascinating museum is dedicated to him and his work. As it’s located right next to the Cathedral, the museum it’s very convenient to visit, and there are nearly 150 different artworks of his on show. You can also visit the house where Picasso was born (now transformed into another museum called Museo Casa Natal de Picasso), which is just a 5-minute walk away.

Entry Fee: 9 EUR (8.81 USD) entry to the museum. Book your ticket with audio guide here .

12. Teatro Romano

Welcome to the oldest place in all of Malaga: the remarkable Teatro Romano! This ancient Roman theatre dates all the way back to the 1st century and can be visited inside or viewed from above. If you visit the viewing area (and the adjacent museum), you can see the old Amphitheater for free. You can find the remains of the Teatro Romano at the foot of the Alcazaba.

Alternatively, for more detailed information about the Teatro, book a guided tour and discover more about its history and role in Malaga. 

Book your combined tour to the Teatro Romano and Alcazaba

Day Trips from Malaga

13. half-day trip to iznajar.

If you’ve got a bit of extra time in Malaga, take a half-day trip to the beautiful village of Iznajar ! This authentic Spanish village is one of the famous ‘ White Villages of Andalusia ’ (Pueblos Blancos). It sits high up on the mountain overlooking the beautiful valley and lake below.

Click here to read all about the things to do in Iznajar .

Spend a few hours enjoying the peace of the village and admiring the traditional Andalusian patios (courtyards). For example, ‘Patio de las Comedias’, where you’ll find hundreds of different colored geranium flowers in vibrant blue pots. It’s a must-see on your Andalusia road trip and only a 1-hour drive from Malaga!

14. Granada and the Alhambra

Malaga is a great base to explore other must-see cities in Andalusia . One of the most incredible cities in the region is breathtaking Granada, home to the Alhambra Palace (a mammoth Moorish fortress that sits above the city in the shadow of snow-topped mountains).

Enjoy exploring Alhambra, and its many beautiful corners, wander the maze of narrow streets in the old town of Granada, enjoy free tapas (yes, free!) from a local bar, and dip your toes in the cooling mountain river.

Read: Best things to do in Granada, Spain

How to get there: It’s straightforward to reach Granada from Malaga. If you have a car, the journey time takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the train (1 hour 15 minutes), which costs around 40 EUR (39.59 USD) for a round trip. If you want your Alhambra ticket and tour included, it might be worth booking a tour from Malaga, which will consist of all your entry fees and transport. 

15. Hike the Caminito del Rey

Just 1-hour drive from Malaga is the thrilling Caminito del Rey . This hike used to be one of the most dangerous in the world. In recent years, the whole hike was refurbished, and it’s now completely safe and secure, with safety barriers and helmets provided.

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We recommend joining a morning walk and enjoying the view of the canyon, lakes, and surrounding Andalusian landscapes. It’s one of the top things to do in Malaga, and because of this popularity, there are plenty of organized tours leaving from the city that include your ticket and transportation.

16. Nerja and Frigiliana Day Trip  

These two charming towns sit very close to each other on the beautiful coastline outside Malaga. If you have a car, they’re the perfect destinations to add to your Andalusia road trip . 

Nerja is known for its lovely beaches and many seafood restaurants, most of which have excellent views across the clifftops.

Drive 10 minutes up into the surrounding mountains to discover the cute white village of Frigiliana. This lovely village is home to beautiful houses and charming shops selling ceramics, art, and clothing. There aren’t as many places to eat here as in Nerja, but the (sunset) views from the restaurant terraces are spectacular!

Book your tour to Nerja and Frigliana

Where to Stay in Malaga

The best place to stay in Malaga is the Old Town, where you’ll be among the most authentic buildings in the city. It’s also only a few minutes walk from the main historical sites.

There are plenty of options to choose from for every budget, from fun hostels to boutique and 5-star hotels. See all hotels in Malaga, Spain .

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Malaga

Malaga is one of the biggest cities you’ll visit on your Andalusia road trip itinerary and, therefore, has many great restaurants, bars, and cafes. You’ll find typical Spanish delicacies, but plenty of other cuisines are on offer. Some of our favorites include:

• Casa Lola (great for tapas)
• El Pimpi (tapas and wine tasting)
• Fonzo (Sharing plates)
• Next Level (specialty coffee)
• Pizzamore (delicious Italian!)
• Restaurante Alyamal (Moroccan)

Please note: In many parts of Spain, tap water is drinkable, so there is no need to buy plastic bottles from the shop. Instead, bring your own reusable bottle and travel plastic-free ! 

How to Visit Malaga

Malaga has an international airport, so it’s straightforward to visit from other major destinations in Europe .

If traveling from outside of Europe, you may have to jump on a connecting flight from Barcelona or Madrid . 

Alternatively, the easiest way to reach Malaga is by car, adding the city as a stopover on your Andalusia roa d trip .

Malaga also has a very good train station with trains leaving to many other big cities in Spain, for example, Barcelona or Madrid (these trains usually are high speed and direct).

See the timetable for your train here .

Getting Around

The city is relatively big, so you might need to use the metro system to transfer between neighborhoods or to reach the beaches. There are taxis like Uber, Cabify, or Bolt. We found Uber and Bolt the cheapest, but there was more availability through Cabify.

Alternatively, there are many bike rental shops in Malaga where you can hire a bike for the day and enjoy the many cycling routes throughout the city and coastline.

How Much Does Malaga Cost?

Just like many other cities in Spain, Malaga is pretty cheap! Try to avoid the touristy spots as places to eat, as the restaurants will be more expensive. For example, you’ll find pricier restaurants in the Old Town or near the port. However, it can still be worth it for the lovely sea views!

Costs of Traveling in Malaga

Travel on a budget in Malaga, from $270 − $440 USD weekly per person, mid-range $910 − $2070 USD, and high-end from $2040 − $2930 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $80 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $30 USD
• Activities: $10 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

Malaga boasts 320 days of sunshine a year! However, be aware that it’s scorching in the summer, although there are many beaches to enjoy and this is the most popular time to do so. This is also the busiest time, particularly in August when the Spanish take their holidays.

The rest of the year is also beautiful; even in the winter, you’ll find blue skies, and many people still brave the water for a swim. It’s also a great time to hike and explore the surrounding area.

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Granada, Spain: Best Things To Do (Travel Guide)

Best things to do in madrid, spain, best things to do in barcelona (travel guide).

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Birthplace of Picasso, the vibrant cosmopolitan city of Málaga is situated on the beautiful Andalucía coastline. Blessed with sunshine and fantastic quality of life, Málaga provides lively nightlife, museums and exceptional seafood restaurants alongside wide boulevards, swaying palm trees and beautiful beaches.

Málaga became a popular winter resort for the wealthy during the 19th century and was famed for is elegance and sophistication. The beautiful park on Calle Alameda dates back to this era and is one of the most celebrated botanical collections in Europe. Open air concerts are held here every Sunday during winter, making a refreshing change from the beach scenario on the coast.

Pablo Picasso is the City’s most famous son (not counting Antonio Banderas of course!) and there are several galleries showcasing his work, including the 16th century Museum of Fine Arts next to the Cathedral.

Museo Picasso Málaga is a moving experience of Picasso’s lifetime of works and has become one of Málaga’s prime attractions. The museum is located in an old palace converted into an amazing art experience. Very natural and authentic, the loved and precision of the craftsmen is evident in the doors and the roof paying tribute to their fellow country man and eminent artist. The permanent collection is composed of donations from his grandson and wife. Even in Picasso’s early paintings is demonstrated a quality of brush stroke and amazing maturity of composition at age 16. There was never a painter like him before and nothing like him after. Seeing the works concentrated here gives an even greater respect for one of the greatest men of the 20th Century.

Museo Carmen Thyssen , and Art Gallery composed from the Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection, was inaugurated on the 24th of March 2011. This art gallery comprises of 2677 works from the Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza collection and makes a complete run through the different genres of Spanish Painters of the 19th century, a painting era defined chronologically between Francisco de Goya and Pablo Picasso, giving particular emphasis on Andalusian art.

Teatro Cervantes is Málaga’s main theatre where Antonio Banderas once trod the boards and he still visits.

Málaga is famous for its “pescaito frito”, an assortment of small fried fish including sardines and anchovies, best followed by a glass of ice cold vino at one of the many old fashioned bodegas in town. But if you want that absolute “catch of the day” freshness El Palo , a typical fisherman’s village just to the east, is the place to go.

At Málaga’s oldest tapas bar “ Antigua Casa de la Guardia ”, try a tapas and glass of Málaga wine. Find no. 16 on the north side of Alameda Principal.

Málaga closes for the siesta period, so this is a perfect time for a long relaxing lunch.

Málaga boasts one of the highest concentrations of world class golf courses and is often nicknamed “The Costa del Golf”. Aside from the beaches, for families there are theme parks, water parks, safari parks, go-karting and many beautiful public gardens. Young visitors can enjoy Benalmadena’s Puerto Marina & ‘24 hour square’ and Marbella’s Puerto Banus , both very trendy and chic but be warned the bars and clubs don’t fill up until near midnight and stay open till dawn.

Garden lovers won’t be disappointed either with the beautiful Alameda Gardens and just outside the city on the way to Antequera one can discover the extensive botanical collection of Jardines de la Concepcion .

Since 2007, Málaga has entered an economic crisis driven by the global economic crisis. Nevertheless, the city is committed to improve the touristic quality that the city offers its visitors and encourage the growth that businesses with new technologies in “ el parque tecnol ó gico de Málaga ” are experiencing, giving Málaga good growth prospects.

As Málaga is one of the Spanish Capitals with the best climate and terrain for everyday bicycle use, Málaga’s city council is creating the cycle-lane infrastructure necessary to promote the bicycle as a form of transport within the city. Click here to see the map of the currently established cycle routes. Don’t forget, if you need anything related to cycling from MTB to road cycling visit this online bike shop which is located in Málaga.

Málaga airport is one of the major airports in Spain due to the number of tourist arrivals on charter flights from Northern Europe using Málaga airport as a gateway to the Costa del Sol. If you are flying into Málaga airport you can pre-book a private Málaga airport transfer taxi or minibus to destinations throughout the province of Málaga: Marbella , Puerto Banus and Nerja.

In recent years, Malaga has promoted the improvement and expansion of hotels in the city and has already managed to place Malaga amongst the Spanish cities with the best hotels on offer, including the recent opening of a 5 star hotel. The best hotels in Malaga can be found in the city centre and adjacent neighbourhoods.

Known as the capital of tourism in Spain, Malaga boasts exceptional weather all year-round and offers a variety of tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol.

Malaga information

All the information you need to plan your holiday on the Costa del Sol can be found here at Malaga.us, including maps of Andalucia and other related information.

Read more ❯

Malaga Airport

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is the main gateway to Malaga. It is used by more than 12 million passengers every year (the 4th busiest airport in Spain). The new terminal 3 has boosted international flights, in fact, many airlines have increased the number of connections with Malaga causing an important reduction in flight prices.

Towns & Cities

From detailed information relating to Marbella, Torremolinos or anywhere on the Costa del Sol , to the charming whitewashed villages known as the “white villages”, here we’ll help you with whatever you need.

Book Online & Pay On Arrival ❯

Top Attractions

Enjoy the best tourist attractions: Visit museums like the Picasso Museum , historic buildings such as the Alcazaba , the Roman Theatre and many more attractions that will make it impossible to get bored.

After visiting the city in the evening, you can relax on one of its beautiful beaches , or stroll through the picturesque streets of the cities and towns located throughout the province.

From a round of golf and top-class water sports to attending a Malaga FC football match at La Rosaleda stadium, Malaga is a paradise for sports-lovers. Not only are there plenty of sporting activities to do, but the climate is so good – with year-round the norm – that you can play your favourite sport whatever the time of year.

From our website you can find the best deals on car hire at the airport. It is the most recommended way to move around Malaga, since the suburban train only runs from Fuengirola to the city centre.

Visit our Malaga pictures section. There you will find a special selection of charming places you can visit, such as Ronda , El Chorro Natural Park , the Cathedral of Malaga and others. Don’t miss them!

Latest Updates

Sierra de las Nieves

A Natural Park in Malaga with villages you should not miss.

Malaga Fair

Know everything about this festivity in Malaga, we added recent information.

Caves of Nerja

Added history, opening times and guide of this tourist attraction.

Alcazaba in Malaga

Updated with photos and history of this monument.

Night of San Juan

Updated information and added typical Spanish rituals and traditions.

Keeping airport guide updated in 2020.

Follow our blog about Malaga to get last minute news, useful tips and incoming events on the Costa del Sol:

If you are in Malaga at the end of April and beginning of May, you can’t miss one of the most popular events, the International People´s Fair in Fuengirola!

Read More ➔

Marbella continues to be one of the most sought-after holiday destinations on the Costa del Sol. If you are planning to spend your holidays in this glamorous city this year, here are the best hotels in Marbella to make the most of your stay.

How is the Weather in Malaga in Spring? Spring in Malaga is probably the most beautiful season of the year. Perhaps you already know that in Malaga there is actually no winter as we know it from the more northern countries and even from the north of Spain. You can find out in our related […]

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Municipal Tourist Information Office - Head Office

• What's on

The central tourist information office is strategically located in the heart of the Historic Centre. It stands out as a focal point for visitors looking to organise their tour of the city. The 200 square metre facility not only provides essential information about the city and local tourism businesses, but is also the main headquarters of the Foreign Tourist Assistance Service.

This specialised service offers assistance in situations that may arise during your stay and offers useful advice and all kinds of information. They provide in-depth advice on places of interest, cultural activities, gastronomy and events in the city.

The staff can provide multilingual support, ensuring that visitors can access the information they need.

Oficina Municipal de Turismo - Central (�rea de Turismo)

Opening times

Winter time (1 November to 31 March): Monday to Sunday from 09:00 to 18:00

Summer time (01 April to 31 October): Monday to Sunday from 09:00 to 19:00

*December 25th� and January 1st� the office will be closed.

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