Malaga is a southern Spanish port city that has become one of the best city-and-beach combinations in Europe. It has a Moorish fortress, a lively old centre, a good run of museums and a long city beach.
It is warm for much of the year, easy to walk, and good for a short break in any season. It is also a useful base for the white villages and the coast.
How many days: 3
Three days covers the main sights, a beach afternoon and a slow tapas evening. Two is enough for the highlights.
A day trip by train or bus to Granada, Ronda or Nerja is popular. Ronda and Granada are far enough to need a full day.
What to do in Malaga
- Climb to the Alcazaba
- A Moorish fortress above the old town with gardens, courtyards and views over the port. A good first stop for orientation.
- See the Gibralfaro Castle
- A fortress on the hilltop above the Alcazaba, reached by a steep path. The walk along the walls gives the best view of the city.
- Visit the Picasso Museum
- Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga, and the museum shows works from across his career. A good choice for a rainy day.
- See the Cathedral
- A large Renaissance cathedral nicknamed the one-armed lady, because one tower was never finished. The rooftop gives views over the city.
- Wander the old centre
- The pedestrian streets are lined with bars, shops and small squares. Follow the lanes without a plan.
- Spend time at the beach
- The city beaches have sand, shallow water and promenade cafes. They are a short walk or bus ride from the centre.
- Visit the Roman theatre
- A small Roman theatre sits at the foot of the Alcazaba and is free to see from outside. It is a quick stop on the way up.
- Browse the Atarazanas market
- A covered food market with a stunning Moorish gate. Fish, fruit, ham and cheese are sold, and several stalls serve tapas.
What to eat and drink
- Tapas
- Small plates are the heart of Malaga's food culture. Move between bars and order a couple of dishes at each.
- Espeto de sardinas
- Fresh sardines grilled on a stick over an open fire on the beach. A true local speciality.
- Fried fish
- Light, crisp fried fish, called pescaito frito, is a classic on the Andalusian coast.
- Sweet Malaga wine
- A sweet local wine is served in traditional bodegas in the old town. Some are decades-old family places.
- Coffee order
- Locals order coffee by naming the proportion of milk. Ask for a 'nube' or a 'sombra' to see the local system at work.
- Ajoblanco
- A cold almond and garlic soup, often topped with grapes or melon. A traditional dish from the Malaga area, especially in summer.
Getting around
The old town is compact and almost entirely walkable. A short walk reaches the beaches, the port and the main museums.
Buses cover the wider city and the nearby suburbs. A commuter train links the centre with the airport and the coast.
The airport is close to the city centre. Check the current train and bus options before you travel.
Good to know
- Summer is very hot, especially in the afternoons. Plan sightseeing for the morning and go out later.
- Winter days are mild and sunny compared with northern Europe. This makes Malaga a good winter break.
- Restaurants open late for lunch and dinner. Adjust to local hours or you will find kitchens closed.
- Many museums have a free entry period. Check the official sites for the current arrangements.
- Holy Week in spring brings large processions through the old town. They are memorable to watch, but streets close and hotels fill up, so plan ahead.
- Sunscreen and a refillable water bottle are worth carrying at any time of year, as the sun is strong even in winter.