Mijas Spain
Visitor Guide & Tourist Information
Mijas is a charming whitewashed village in the province of Malaga, Andalusia, Spain.
It is situated high above the Mediterranean Sea and the Costa del Sol on the Sierra de Mijas foothills.
Mijas is one of Andalucia's most well-liked white-washed villages, drawing tourists from all around the world due to its fascinating rich culture, and stunning natural surroundings.
Mijas has a rich and diverse history that dates back to ancient times. In the 8th century AD, Mijas was conquered by the Moors, who gave the village its name and introduced Islam, agriculture and architecture.
In the 20th century, Mijas experienced a boom in tourism, thanks to its scenic location and the preservation of its traditional charm.
One of the most emblematic features of Mijas is its white-washed village home, which contrasts with the green hills and the blue sea. The houses are decorated with colourful flowers, ceramic pots and iron balconies, creating a picturesque and romantic atmosphere.
A unique and entertaining way to explore the village's winding lanes and streets is by donkey taxi which is an iconic part of everyday Mijas life.
Mijas also has several historical and cultural sites to visit, such as the Plaza de Toros de Mijas, which is a unique oval-shaped bullring built in 1900; the Centro de Artes Mijas, which is a former town hall that houses a museum of local art and crafts; and the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción, which is a 16th-century church that combines Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles.
Moreover, Mijas has a variety of natural attractions to enjoy, such as the beaches located all along Mijas Costa, the Parque Natural de la Sierra de Mijas Nature Park, which is a protected area that offers hiking trails, panoramic views and wildlife; and the Mirador del Compás, which is a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the coast and the mountains.
Mijas Village has preserved its traditions and identity very well while embracing modernity and tourism, it will certainly captivate you with its charm and beauty.
Mijas Pueblo is also well known for its charming donkey taxis which offer trips around the centre and outskirts of the Village.
It is a joy to walk around and discover this fascinating and beautiful Andalucian village at any time of the year.
Popular attractions in Mijas include the Ermita Virgen de la Pena, the 16th-century Church of la Concepcion, an open-top auditorium, and the Carromato Miniature Museum.
Although the village itself has quite a small population, the actual municipality covered by the Mijas is quite vast and reportedly one of Spain’s richest town halls.
The coastal part of Mijas from Benalmadena on its eastern border, Fuengirola to the South, Marbella to the West and the lovely villages of Coin and Alhaurin to the North.
The subdivisions of Mijas include popular holiday destinations such as La Cala de Mijas, Riviera del Sol and Sitio de Calahonda, each one is a large residential enclave as well as a number of blue flag beaches.
Best Things To Do In Mijas
- Explore Mijas Pueblo: Stroll through the charming white-washed streets of Mijas Pueblo, a traditional Andalusian village.
- Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña: Visit this historic hermitage built into a rock for panoramic views of the Costa del Sol.
- Bullring of Mijas: Check out one of the few oval-shaped bullrings in Spain, which also houses a small museum.
- Have a fun day out at Mijas Aqua Park: Great for families, the Mijas Water Park offers various slides and pools to beat the heat.
- El Compas Viewpoint: Take in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains.
- Mijas Golf International: If you're a golfer, enjoy a round or two at one of the area's premier courses.
- Carromato de Max Miniature Museum: Visit this unique museum that houses an array of miniature art pieces.
- Enjoy a Donkey Taxi: Experience Mijas in a quirky yet traditional way by taking a short ride on a "burro-taxi," or donkey taxi.
- Church of the Immaculate Conception: Explore this 16th-century church built on the ruins of a Moorish castle.
- Visit the Costa del Sol Beaches: While Mijas itself is inland, it's just a short drive to some of the best beaches in the area including la Cala Beach, Butibamba, Miraflores, Mimosas and Dona Lola.
Enjoy a Scenic Walk in Mijas
Mijas is a perfect place to enjoy a scenic walk and discover its hidden charms.
One of the best routes to explore Mijas is the circular walk that starts from the Plaza Virgen de la Pena, where you can admire the statue of the patron saint of the village and the old town hall.
From there, you can follow the signs to the Ermita del Calvario, a small chapel on a hill that offers panoramic views of the coast and the countryside.
The walk continues along a dirt track that leads to the Mirador de Fuentes de Jarapalos, a viewpoint where you can see the Fuengirola River valley and the Sierra de Mijas. You can also see much of the native flora and fauna, such as pine trees, cork oaks, wildflowers, birds and butterflies.
The next stop is the Cerro de Medialuna, a hill with a peculiar shape that resembles a half-moon. Here you can enjoy another spectacular view of Mijas and its surroundings. You can also see some of the old water mills that used to provide water to the village.
The walk then descends back to Mijas, passing by some of its most emblematic monuments, such as the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepcion, a 16th-century church with a beautiful bell tower; the Museo Historico Etnologico, a museum that showcases the local traditions and crafts; and the Plaza de Toros, a unique oval-shaped bullring.
The walk ends full circle back at the Plaza Virgen de la Peña, where you can relax and enjoy some authentic local food and drink, such as gazpacho, migas, torta de aceite or Vino de Naranja.
Eating Out in Mijas
Mijas offers a variety of gastronomic experiences to get your taste buds going. From traditional Andalusian dishes to cutting-edge fusion cuisine, Mijas offer food for everyone.
There are many ways to enjoy the delectable regional cuisine, whether you want to go on a tapas tour, have a romantic dinner or enjoy a family night out.
Mijas's gastronomy uses lots of local products, such as cured ham, meats and chicken, olive oil, almonds, honey, cheese, wine and seafood.
A few examples of typical dishes you can try include gazpacho, a cold soup made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and garlic; migas, fried bread crumbs with chorizo, bacon, and grapes; torta de aceite, a sweet pastry with aniseed and sesame seeds; and vino de naranja, an orange-flavoured sweet wine.
If you are looking for restaurants that serve local Spanish food in Mijas, you will not be disappointed. Some of the most popular eateries include Bar La Piedra, Restaurante Los Arcos, La Terraza de Chema, and Bar La Martina.
Recommended accommodation in Mijas
Luxury High-End
The 4 star Macdonald La Ermita Club Mijas apartments boast an impressive location on the hillside just a few minutes walk from the town centre. The views and facilities are second to none. The apartments are fully equipped, large and bright with stunning views down to the coast and Mediterranean Sea, there are two pools, a gym and a lounge bar.
Mid Range
The 4-star Hotel TRH Mijas enjoys a perfect location close to the town's centre and close to plenty of bars and eateries. An elegant hotel with tennis courts, a Jacuzzi, sauna, facial treatments, a rooftop terrace, wifi and views of the mountains and the sea. There is a very nice restaurant and a delicious breakfast buffet.
Budget Accommodation
By far one of the best lower-budget places to stay in Mijas village is the delightful Hostal El Escudo de Mijas. Great location just a few steps from the main square, Plaza de la Constitucion, Mijas Plaza de Toros and numerous bars and restaurants. Enjoy spectacular views over the village and down to the Mediterranean Sea. Featured amenities include a small fridge, mini bar, luggage storage and a safe deposit box at the front desk.