When it comes to the exciting and vibrant city of Malaga, there is no shortage of activities and attractions for you to enjoy.
From its rich history and cultural heritage to its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere, Malaga offers a whole range of, here are some of the best things to do in Malaga.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Malaga is the Alcazaba, a magnificent Moorish fortress that dates back to the 11th century. Exploring the Alcazaba allows you to immerse yourself in the city's history while enjoying breathtaking views of Malaga. Nearby, you'll find the Roman Theatre, an impressive archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the ancient past.
For art lovers, you will be delighted by the renowned Picasso Museum, located in the heart of Malaga. This museum houses an extensive collection of works by the renowned artist Pablo Picasso, offering a fascinating insight into his life and artistic journey.
Additionally, the Centre Pompidou Malaga, a branch of the famous Parisian museum, showcases modern and contemporary art exhibitions.
No visit to Malaga would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Head to the historic center to explore bustling markets and sample local delicacies. From freshly caught seafood to the famous fried fish known as "pescaíto frito," Malaga's gastronomy is a treat for the taste buds. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of sweet Malaga wine or a locally brewed San Miguel beer for a truly authentic experience.
One of the big attractions to the city is its long hours of sunshine and popular beaches. La Malagueta Beach is a popular spot where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a plate of fresh fish in one of the busy beach bars. Playa de Pedregalejo offers a more tranquil setting, perfect for a leisurely stroll along the promenade or enjoying a seafood lunch in one of the beachfront restaurants.
Exploring the city center and old quarter of Malaga is a must-do activity. Take a leisurely walk along Calle Marques de Larios, the bustling main street lined with shops, cafes, and boutiques. Don't forget to visit the Cathedral of Malaga, a magnificent example of Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
if you love being at one with nature, you will appreciate a visit to the nearby Montes de Malaga Natural Park, a haven of biodiversity just a short drive from central Malaga. Hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and picnic areas await, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
In addition to these popular attractions, Malaga offers a wide range of cultural events, lively nightlife, and shopping opportunities.
Visit the Picasso Museum
The cultural heritage of Malaga can now take centre stage and is home to the Picasso Museum which is housed in the beautiful old Palacio de la Bellavista.
Picasso is probably Malaga’s most famous son and the impressive Picasso museum is a testament to that fact.
Around 150 works of art created by Picasso have been exhibited, these can be viewed over two floors and include paintings, drawings, sculptures, and lithographs.
The house where Pablo Ruiz Picasso was born is located on the Plaza de la Merced, 3 minute's walk from the museum. Here you can see areas relating to his life and work from different periods of his exceptional life. Makes for an interesting stopover even if art is not your thing.
The Alcazaba
Proudly watching over this cosmopolitan capital are the Castillo de Gibralfaro and the Alcazaba de Malaga ( Moorish Castle ).
The castle dates back to the 14th century and has pretty fountains and manicured gardens whilst the origins of the Alcazaba date to the 11th century. Both have impressive views over Malaga, the port area and the Mediterranean Sea and are well worth visiting.
Malaga Cathedral
The cathedral in Malaga was built a long time ago on the site of a large mosque. It took more than 200 years to complete because of many problems and delays. That's why the cathedral features different architectural styles, such as Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.
The exterior of the cathedral looks really impressive, with lots of ornate details and decorations. There's a tall tower called La Manquita, which means "The One-Armed Lady" because it only has one tower instead of two. There's a story that says the money for the second tower was used to help the American Revolution, so they couldn't finish it. But even with just one tower, the cathedral looks unique and charming.
When you go inside, you'll see a big and beautiful space. It's decorated with fancy features and has colourful stained-glass windows. There are also many special religious things inside, like a choir that sings and a fancy wooden pulpit that's been carved with intricate designs. The cathedral is a special place to explore and see all these amazing things, and it tells us a lot about Malaga's history and culture.
One of the highlights of a visit to Malaga Cathedral is the opportunity to explore its rooftop. Climb to the top, you will be rewarded with amazing views of the city and the surrounding landscapes.
Enjoy Delicious Tapas
Tapas culture in Malaga is deeply ingrained in the local lifestyle, where friends and families gather to socialise, share small plates of delicious food, and enjoy a convivial atmosphere.
When it comes to tapas in Malaga, there are several standout bars and restaurants that offer an exceptional culinary experience. One of the top tapas bars in the city is El Pimpi, located near the Roman Theatre. It boasts a historic ambience and a vast selection of traditional tapas, including Iberian ham, grilled sardines, and gazpacho.
Another popular spot is La Tranca, known for its lively atmosphere and innovative tapas creations. Here, you can indulge in a variety of dishes like spicy potatoes, marinated pork skewers, and mouthwatering stuffed peppers.
For seafood lovers, the renowned El Tintero is a must-visit. This unique seafood restaurant is known for its vibrant and interactive dining experience. Instead of ordering from a menu, waiters walk around the restaurant with trays of freshly prepared seafood dishes. You simply choose what you want, and the bill is calculated based on the number of plates you've enjoyed.
One of the best ways to find out all about Tapas is by trying them out, and there is plenty of choice. Some of the most popular tapas dishes in Malaga, the options are plentiful. One iconic dish is boquerones en vinagre, which consists of fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, garlic, and parsley. Gambas al pil-pil, succulent prawns cooked in olive oil, garlic, and chilli, are also a favourite among food lovers.
Patatas bravas, fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli, are a staple tapas dish found in almost every bar. Another beloved classic is tortilla Española, a thick and fluffy potato omelette often served with bread.
Pescadito frito, or fried fish, is a popular choice in coastal cities like Malaga. This dish typically includes a variety of small fish, such as anchovies or whitebait, lightly battered and fried to perfection.
To accompany your tapas adventure, don't forget to try a glass of local Malaga wine or a refreshing glass of tinto de verano, a popular summer drink made with red wine and lemon soda.
Malaga Port & Marina
The Malaga Port area has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming a hub of activity and a vibrant destination for both locals and visitors. With its recent improvements and renovations, the port has become an even more enticing place to explore.
One of the standout features is the extensive promenade that stretches along the waterfront. This pedestrian-friendly space is perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and picturesque views. The promenade is lined with trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a wide range of dining and shopping options.
Enjoy Spectacular Roof Top Views
And if you want a spectacular view over the city and port area, then head to the sun lounge and terraced bar at the top of the AC Marriott Hotel.
The AC Marriott Hotel in Malaga is a fantastic place to stay if you want an amazing view of the city. The hotel has a rooftop terrace that gives you a breathtaking view of Malaga. It feels like you're on top of the world!
From the terrace, you can see famous places like the Alcazaba fortress and the Cathedral. It's incredible to see these iconic landmarks from up high.
Not only is the rooftop terrace a great spot for enjoying the view, but it's also a peaceful place to relax. You can sit on comfortable chairs, sip on a delicious cocktail, and just take in the beauty of Malaga. It's a wonderful way to unwind and enjoy your time in the city.
So if you're looking for a hotel with an extraordinary view, the AC Marriott in Malaga is the place to be. You'll be amazed by the sights and have a truly memorable experience.
Chill Out On Malaga´s Urban Beaches
Malaga, a coastal city, is also home to some beautiful urban beaches that attract both locals and visitors.
One of the most popular is Malagueta Beach, a picturesque stretch of golden sand located close to the city center. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible for visitors. This vibrant beach is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike, especially during the summer months when the sun is shining and the water is inviting.
One of the highlights of Malagueta Beach is the mouthwatering seafood and fish available at the beachside chiringuitos, or beach bars.
These tasty eateries offer a variety of delicious local Spanish dishes, with grilled sardines as a speciality. Known as "espetos," these sardines are skewered and cooked over an open fire, infusing them with a truly delightful smoky flavour.
Other popular beaches worth visiting include Playa de la Misericordia, Playa de Pedregalejo, El Palo, San Andres and Los Alamos.
Explore Fascinating Food Markets
Malaga is renowned for its famous indoor food markets, each of which is not only a feast for the senses but also a reflection of the city's culinary heritage.
Here are some of the top indoor food markets in Malaga:
Mercado Central de Atarazanas: Located in the heart of Malaga, this bustling market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Housed in a stunning historic building, it offers a wide range of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. You'll also find an array of local foods, such as olives, cheeses, and cured meats.
Mercado de Salamanca: Situated near Malagueta Beach, this market is known for its seafood focus. It showcases an impressive selection of fresh fish, shellfish, and other seafood delicacies. Also, a great place to find amazing traditional tapas, sample different types of oysters or enjoy a seafood paella prepared right in front of you.
Mercado Merced: Located in the La Merced neighbourhood, this market offers a unique blend of fresh produce, gourmet products, and a vibrant dining scene. It features stalls selling everything from fruits and vegetables to spices, artisanal products, and international cuisine. You can try out a variety of flavours from different regions, including Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin American.
Stroll Along Calle Larios
Calle Larios is the iconic main street of central Malaga, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning architecture, and an array of shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Located in the city centre, it is a bustling pedestrian street that attracts locals and tourists alike. Calle Larios is not just a place to shop and dine but also a cultural hub that reflects the essence of Malaga.
As you stroll along Calle Larios, you'll be captivated by its grandeur and beauty. The street is lined with elegant buildings adorned with intricate balconies, creating a picturesque setting. The vibrant colours and lively ambience make it a perfect spot for leisurely walks and people-watching.
Food lovers will also be spoiled for choice along Calle Larios. The street is dotted with charming cafes, tapas bars, and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious Andalusian cuisine. From traditional tapas to mouthwatering seafood dishes, the gastronomic offerings are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In addition to shopping and dining, Calle Larios is often a venue for various cultural events and festivals. The street comes alive during celebrations such as Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Feria de Málaga, with vibrant decorations, live music, and traditional dances.
Getting Around & Transport Options
To cope with the increasing number of foreign tourists visiting the Costa del Sol each year major improvement works have been carried out at Malaga airport to accommodate the increased number of flights to Malaga including a new terminal building.
There is also a convenient train service that stops at the airports and runs from Malaga to Fuengirola every 20 minutes during the day. There are no direct train services to the coastal resorts past Fuengirola. There are inter-city lines that run to all the major destinations around Spain as well as a regular high-speed Ave train service that runs from Malaga to Sevilla, Cordoba, Barcelona and Madrid which is great if you're looking to visit a few others cities during your stay on the Costa del Sol.
The main coastal highway ( N340 ) offers easy access to the airport and all destinations from Malaga, this is a toll-free road. For a faster option of getting around the Costa del Sol use the AP7 toll motorway, it may cost you a few Euros but it's well worth it if you're in a hurry as there is very little traffic and it will cut your drive times down considerably.
There are regular bus services that cover Malaga City with routes to Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Benalmadena, Mijas and Marbella.
Look out for the red tourist information booths which are located all around the city and have proven to be a great success with visitors.
Hotels
Recommended Hotels in Malaga
Malaga, Spain, offers many accommodations, from luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels in the historic centre.
The 5-star Gran Hotel Miramar overlooking Malagueta Beach provides lavish rooms just steps from the water for high-end stays. The 5-star Vincci Seleccion Posada del Patio is a stunning hotel just a 10-minute walk from the Picasso Museum, Malaga Cathedral and Calle Larios.
The AC Hotel Malaga Palacio exudes modern elegance and sleek design in a prime location near the Cathedral and the port.
The contemporary Barcelo Malaga is conveniently connected to the AVE high-speed train station. Boutique Hotel Molina Lario offers chic rooms in a 19th-century townhouse.
