Málaga has been drawing visitors for centuries – from Roman emperors to modern-day sun-seekers – and it’s easy to see why. Here’s are our guide for getting the most our of Málaga.
By: Paul Healy | Last Updated: | Jump to Comments
Perched on the Mediterranean coast with sunshine practically guaranteed year-round, Málaga has everything from urban beaches and old-town streets to leisurely afternoons sipping local vermouth.
The city has had a bit of a glow-up in recent years.
What was once mainly known as a gateway to the Costa del Sol’s famous beaches has transformed into a cultural destination worth visiting for its own sake.
New urban spaces have breathed fresh life into the city, while its historic heart remains as charming as ever.
We enjoyed the fantastic art scene, the Roman ruins, local tapas bars and the layers of fascinating history. We always love wandering through narrow laneways in old towns, and Málaga is no exception.
While Málaga makes an excellent base for exploring the wider Costa del Sol region, don’t just pass through. The city itself has more than enough charm to warrant a proper stay.
MAP: MÁLAGA, ANDALUCÍA
The map below includes all the Málaga attractions we listed in this guide so you can plot your plan of attack for conquering one of the best cities in Andalucía.
If you want to read more about this beautiful part of Spain, read our guide to the best places in Andalucía.
We also have an itinerary for Andalucía, which you can do by rail. It starts in Seville, visits Córdoba and Granada, then finishes in Málaga.
USING OUR MAPS. Click on the top right corner to open in the Google Maps app. Click on the star to save to your Google account.
WHAT TO DO IN MÁLAGA?
Mark and I are regular visitors to Málaga, spending around two months of the year escaping the dreary weather in the UK. This list of top things to do has been refined after several visits.
1. VISIT THE ALCAZABA OF MÁLAGA
The Alcazaba of Málaga is a defensive fortress built by the Moors in the 11th century as one of the most important defences in the area.
Lush gardens and opulent Moorish-style courtyards surround a series of residential palaces known as Cuartos de Granada.
These were lavish homes to kings and governors, and most impressive is the Nasrid Palace.
Throughout the Alcazaba, you’ll find horseshoe arches and architectural details common to the area, including the Alcázar of Seville, the Mosque of Córdoba, and the Alhambra in Granada.
TIPS FOR VISITING THE ALCAZABA
- It’s a steep climb to the Alcazaba, but there is a lift to take you to the main section (see the location on our map above).
- There’s a free audioguide to use on your smartphone, so bring headphones with you.
- If you intend to visit the Castillo de Gibralfaro (see below), purchase a combined ticket for both at the entrance to the Alcazaba. This will allow you to skip the queue at the Castillo.
- Although the Castillo is located above the Alcazaba, there is no access between the two. You need to exit the Alcazaba and then proceed up to the castle.
ALCAZABAR SKIP THE LINE // Visit the Alcazaba and the Roman Theatre on this Skip-the-line + Guided Tour to save queuing up.
2. CLIMB THE CASTILLO DE GIBRALFARO
Located high above the city, Castillo de Gibralfaro is a fortress on the crest of Gibralfaro Mountain, 132 metres above sea level.
The castle was built in 929 AD by emir Abd-al-Rahmann of Córdoba when Málaga was the main port for nearby Granada (see our guide – things to do in Granada).
It was a key defensive fortification in the Siege of Málaga when the Catholic Monarchs took the city from the Moors.
The castle is just a shell, but the ramparts provide an interesting walk up, and the walls offer excellent views over Málaga.
TIPS FOR VISITING THE CASTILLO
- The walk up to the Castillo is very steep, but you can save your legs by getting a taxi, the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus, or the 35 local bus from el Parque de Málaga to Camino de Gibralfaro.
- Purchase your ticket for the Castillo from the Alcazaba, which will allow you to skip the queue.
- You can walk to the viewpoint at the top of the castle, even outside opening hours, for excellent sunrise or sunset views over Málaga.
IS THE CASTILLO DE GIBRALFARO WORTH VISITING?
There is little to see of the actual castle except for the walls, which have been heavily restored.
While the views of Málaga are excellent, the walk up is very steep, and there is no shade.
If you’re pressed for time, we suggest skipping the castle and leaving enough time for the Alcazaba.
Take the Cathedral roof tour instead for an alternative view of Málaga (see below).
3. ADMIRE THE ROMAN THEATRE
Built during Emperor Augustus’s reign in the 1st century BCE, the Málaga Roman Theatre is one of the only remaining Roman ruins in Andalucía.
It was used as a theatre until the 3rd century and later by the Moors as a quarry and burial ground.
The theatre was rediscovered in 1951 and, following a large-scale restoration project, opened 27 years later. Today, it is used for summer open-air performances, where 220 spectators can be entertained in Roman style.
Tickets & Tours – Entrance is free, but to learn more about the history of Malaga, this guided tour of the Roman Theatre also includes access to the Alcazaba.
4. BE AWESTRUCK AT THE CATHEDRAL OF MÁLAGA
Malaga’s Cathedral rises imperiously over the old town.
Built on the site of a former mosque after the Christian Monarchs conquered the city, construction began in 1500 but was halted several times before finally being completed in 1588.
Work resumed in the 18th century to build two imposing bell towers. However, money was diverted to support America’s War of Independence, and only one was built. This earned the cathedral the nickname of La Manquita, one-armed woman.
Inside, the Gothic altarpiece of the Chapel of Santa Barbara dominates the space, with the 17th-century mahogany choir stalls set below two organs with 4,000 pipes.
CATHEDRAL ROOFTOP TOUR // The best way to see the cathedral is on the rooftop tour, with English and Spanish guides who point out interesting features while you take in sweeping views of the city. Roof tours occur hourly except at 3 p.m. and must be booked on the cathedral website.
5. SEE THE WORKS IN THE PICASSO MUSEUM
The Picasso Museum Málaga is located in a beautiful 16th-century Renaissance building and contains over 200 works donated by the Picasso family.
It has a semi-chronological layout, allowing you to follow the development of his career through paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and drawings.
It’s one of the best attractions in Málaga and one of the few city-based activities we recommend in our guide to visiting the Costa del Sol.
Book your skip-the-line entry ticket with audioguide to the Picasso Museum.
6. WANDER MÁLAGA OLD TOWN
As the capital of the Costa del Sol, Málaga is a sun-drenched city coveted by ancient civilisations since 770 BCE.
The Romans defined the city’s urban heart, which was later amended by everyone from the Byzantines to the Islamic caliphates.
Today, Málaga Old Town is a beautiful network of marbled pedestrian streets, Moorish-inspired laneways and hidden squares dappled with the shadows of orange trees.
The best area to explore is around the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista church, with its baroque tower and stunning vaulted ceiling.
If you make an improvised path towards the Picasso Museum, you’ll discover some of the old town’s most atmospheric corners.
SPANISH VERMUT // Tapas La Recova is a small, traditional bar that offers an authentic taste of the region. Order a vermouth, a slightly sweet aperitif, and you’ll enjoy one of the best things to do in Málaga.
7. GLASS & CRYSTAL MUSEUM
The Crystal and Glass Museum in Malaga is a unique museum that showcases an impressive collection of objects from various periods and styles.
Located in the city’s heart, the museum is in a beautiful 18th-century building.
Visits are by guided tour from the very interesting owner, who will regale you with stories from his life and how he came to acquire the pieces in the collection.
It’s an unusual thing to do in Malaga, there’s no doubt about that. But we thoroughly enjoyed the tour, and if you’re looking for something a bit different, we highly recommend it.
8. EAT AT MERCADO CENTRAL DE ATARAZANAS
The Mercado de Atarazanas is a bustling market in the centre of Málaga that dates back to the 14th century.
It was used as a Moorish shipyard and later renovated in the 19th century using the existing monumental archway entrance.
Bursting with fresh produce and the typical vibrant character of Spanish markets, Mercado de Atarazanas is where locals shop, and tourists come to savour the environment.
In addition to piles of fruit and vegetables, the market displays its Moorish roots with dried fruits, spices, jellies, and salted fish.
Eat like a local – The best way to experience the market is by grabbing lunch at the tables that line its exterior edge. Fried fish is the regional speciality.
9. ADMIRE LOCAL ARTISTS AT THE NEW MUSEO DE MÁLAGA
The Museum of Malaga was formed initially in 1973. It combines the Museum of Fine Arts and the Archaeological Museum in one palatial building.
The museum has 8 rooms in total, with 5 dedicated to archaeology and 3 to fine art. The highlights for us were rooms 7 and 8, which contain works by 19th and 20th-century local artists.
Some of the works included paintings by Jose de Ribera and Murillo, as well as sketches by Picasso.
We loved this museum and can’t wait to go back next time we’re in Málaga.
Entry is an incredible €1.50 to see this amazing collection. It’s free for EU citizens.
10. PICK FROM MÁLAGA’S OTHER MUSEUMS
There’s a lot of art to explore in Málaga, which can be a great way to escape the head of the day. Here are a few two other galleries we recommend.
As an outpost of the Madrid gallery (see our guide: things to do in Madrid), 19th-century Andalusian paintings dominate the Carmen Thyssen Museum.
The collection includes masters such as Zurbarán and modern temporary collections in a renovated mansion of the nobility. Book a skip-the-line entry ticket.
Pompidou Centre Malaga is a modern art gallery at the Port of Málaga. It has a permanent collection and rotating temporary exhibitions.
They have a regular program of modern installations and a few masterpieces borrowed from their Paris gallery (read our guide to things to do in Paris). Book your skip-the-line entry.
11. UNWIND IN HAMMAM AL ÁNDALUS
The recently renovated Hammam Al Ándalus is the finest Arab bath in Málaga.
Rejuvenate with cold, warm, and hot thermal baths and finish with an invigorating scrub. It’s an invigorating way to spend time in Malaga and a great way to experience the city’s Moorish connections.
Book your entry ticket + massage.
After your hammam visit, stop at La Teteria and try one of their 150 artisanal teas. Tucked into a quiet backstreet, enjoy your brew under the backdrop of the San Agustín’s church or in their charming teahouse.
12. DRINK WITH THE LOCALS AT ANTIGUA CASA DE GUARDIA
Antigua Casa de Guardia (the Old Guard House) is an old-school taverna offering a great selection of local Málaga wines, sherries, and vermouths.
With old sherry barrels stacked against the wall, orders scratched on the bar with chalk, and a regular vibrant hubbub, it’s an authentic experience and one of the best things to do in Málaga.
They have a small selection of tapas, which you can order and eat at the bar or the old barrels with stools.
Try a Pajarete, the sweet wine from Málaga, which is now a protected term.
Antigua Casa de Guardia is very popular with tourists and locals, so expect a bit of a crush.
13. STROLL MÁLAGA PORT
The Port of Málaga is a well-protected natural bay on the edge of the old town that serves cruise ships, ferries, and small tourist boats.
It is also a bustling hub of activity, with numerous bars and shops lining the ten quays that make up the area.
Stroll from the Pompidou Centre along the Promenade Pablo Ruiz Picasso towards some of the city’s best beaches.
Stop at the various market stalls, bars, and restaurants under the fishbone-inspired canopy.
CATAMARAN TOURS // Watch the sun set over the Málaga skyline and surrounding mountains with a complimentary glass of cava on this Catamaran Tour from Málaga Port.
14. HIT THE BEACH AT PLAYA DE LA MALAGUETA
Playa de la Malagueta’s palm-lined promenade is a beautiful urban beach just 10 minutes from the city centre of Málaga.
After a day exploring the city’s historic side, take a lazy afternoon to soak up the sun on this lovely beach.
The beach has plenty of facilities, including showers, toilets, and outdoor gym equipment. If you want to relax, you can rent a sun lounger for around €7 for the day.
There are also several chiringuitos, or beach bars, where you can enjoy a beer with your feet in the sand.
More restaurants are on Paseo de la Farola, a narrow strip of land between the port and the Pompidou Centre.
15. TAKE IN A FLAMENCO SHOW
The flamboyant, seductive art of flamenco has been practised in the Andalucía region for over 500 years.
While Seville is considered the cradle of the flamenco, there’s a lively scene in Málaga, particularly throughout the summer months.
- Bienal de Flamenco—This month-long open-air festival attracts some of the biggest flamenco names in Spain.
- Tablao Algería—Tablao Algeria has daily authentic flamenco performances with traditional Andalusian food and drinks in the Port of Málaga.
- El Gallo Ronco—Catch a passionate performance at El Gallo Ronco, a charming traditional space in the centre of Málaga. The genuine old taverna feel matches traditional Andalucian-style food.
PLANNING & LOGISTICS
WHERE TO STAY IN MÁLAGA?
Málaga is a popular spot for good reason, so it pays to book your accommodation well in advance. Here are some places we recommend.
Icon Malabar (€€€€) – This smart, contemporary property is well-appointed with clean, bright rooms and is in an excellent location for exploring Málaga. Free bike hire makes it easy to get around.
GR Suites Boutique Alcazaba (€€) – In an excellent location just 300 metres from Málaga Cathedral, Gr Suites is a one-bedroom apartment with a dining area and kitchenette. It’s a great place for couples to stay in Málaga.
Soho Boutique Urban (€€) – This colourful, modern property is just a few minutes’ walk from the old town. It has well-equipped rooms and friendly, helpful service. Some rooms have balconies with city views or inner courtyards.
WHERE TO EAT IN MALAGA?
There’s no shortage of places to eat in Málaga and probably the best way to pick something is to stroll around and see what takes your fancy.
If you’re looking for a street-side setting where you can people watch while you have lunch, head to the area around Calle Strachan and Calle Salinas.
For more modern summer offerings, head to the port which has lots of alfresco dining options.
El Pimpi – We tried El Pimpi, the sprawling restaurant owned by Antonio Banderas, last time we were in Málaga. We have to say the food and atmosphere were both pretty good. It’s busy and hectic and not refined, but it’s really good local tapas.
Picasso Bar Tapas – This is a great place for authentic tapas in a great location on Plaza de la Merced. The reviews have been mixed, but we thought it was pretty good.
El Rincon de Lola – There are several Lola restaurants in Málaga but El Rincon is the best. It’s a mix of Mediterranean and Spanish food in a relaxed setting with good prices.
COFFEE IN MALAGA
Coffee in Malaga is a beloved local tradition. It is known for its strong, bold flavour, delivered in the classic café solo or the sweet, frothy café con leche.
But there’s also a growing demand for artisanal coffee, brewed to perfection and served with the increasingly rare partner, fresh milk. Here are some cafes in Málaga we love.
Mia Coffee – Recently relocated to a newer space in Soho, Mia Coffee is the best in Málaga. It offers an excellent selection of delicious homemade cakes.
Next Level Specialty Coffee—The cool vibe and relaxed atmosphere are a great accompaniment to the great coffee served at Next Level.
Kima—Kima takes its coffee very seriously, roasting its own sustainably sourced beans just on the edge of the old town.
HOW LONG?
Málaga is the perfect weekend break, and in 2 days, you’ll be able to visit all the main highlights and have some time to check out the bar scene and scoff plenty of tapas. If you have 3 days to spend in Málaga, you’ll also have time to laze on the beach or take a day trip into Andalucía.
However, there are plenty of nearby attractions that make it worth a longer trip. Add Seville to your Málaga trip (2 hours by train) or the historic capital of Córdoba (1 hour by train).
BEST TIME TO VISIT MÁLAGA?
The best time to visit Málaga is April and May when the temperatures average a very pleasant 19°C to 24°C, and the city is not yet busy with mid-summer travellers.
However, sea temperatures are still on the chilly side.
The busiest periods are between June and August when the city buzzes with tourists. The warm evening temperatures are ideal for a night out and finding your favourite tapa bar. Expect days to average 31°C, the beaches to be busy, and the water to be lovely and warm.
September and October are between mid- and low-season in Málaga. When the temperatures return to being more pleasant, and the sea is still warm, it’s a lovely time to visit, but don’t expect it to be especially quiet.
DAY TRIPS FROM MÁLAGA
Málaga is perfectly located to enjoy some of the great attractions in Andalucía. Here are some day trips we recommend from Málaga.
Mijas is a white village high above the Costa del Sol, around 30 minutes from Málaga. It’s beautifully set and a great way to experience the white villages if you don’t have much time.
Caminito del Rey is a 7-kilometre hike through a stunning gorge suspended 100 metres above the ground on an aerial path. Anyone with a reasonable fitness level can complete the mostly flat trail.
Ronda is beautiful town, set above the Tajo de Ronda. It’s the perfect destination for a day trip with a fascinating mix of historical sights in a beautiful Spanish town.
White Villages – read this guide if you have a ca. We have included a scenic driving route to see the best villages.
The beaches of Marbella and the Golden Mile are west of Málaga. They are popular if you are looking for lazing on the beach, cocktail in hand.
Córdoba was the capital of the only caliphate in Western Europe, and today, it’s a fascinating city to visit. The Mezquita-Catedral, with a mix of Muslim and Christian influences, is one of the most important buildings in the world.
Granada is a historic town at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, around 1.5 hours drive from Málaga.
MORE HELPFUL ANDALUCÍA GUIDES
- Read about our favourite places to visit in Andalucía.
- Relax on the Costa del Sol with our guide to the best beach bars near Marbella.
- Our guide to the best things to do in Granada has the top attractions plus the best tapas.
- The Caminito del Rey hike is one of the most stunning in Spain.
- Get off-the-beaten track on the El Pinsapar Trail in Sierra de Grazalema.
- Soak up the sun at these beautiful beaches near Tarifa.
- Visit el Torreón, the highest peak in Sierra de Grazalema.
- Discover all the best things to do in Seville.
- What to do in Mijas on a day trip.
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Paul & Mark.
Great guide of my hometown!
Great post! You are the only ones who added Antigua Casa de Guardia from all the posts I’ve read 🙂
Hi Paula, Thanks for your comment. It’s a pretty cool bar isn’t it. Cheers, Mark