Málaga holidays

Bubbling fountains and orange trees decorate the Moorish Alcazaba, one of the most popular attractions to see on a trip to Malaga. Admire the Roman theatre and wander up cobbled pathways to fortress walls and courtyard gardens. Time a visit to Castillo de Gibralfaro with sunset for unforgettable views from the castle’s rampants.

Lazy hours on La Malagueta Beach don’t cost a thing if you’re aiming for a cheap holiday to Malaga. Roll your towels out under a palm tree and let the kids loose in the playground. Explore more of the Costa del Sol, with the golden sand beaches of Torremolinos and Benalmadena a quick train ride or drive away.

Is there anything better than tasting your way around the sights? Food tours are popular in Malaga, from market and tapas crawls in the city to vineyard visits in the countryside. If tours aren’t for you, simply follow your nose to grilled seafood in the El Palo neighborhood and bakeries in the old town for ‘polvorones’ (almond cookies).

Wondering where to stay in Malaga to be in the heart of the action? Look no further than Centro. Stroll from your hotel into the old town’s charming alleys lined with shops and restaurants. Most paths lead to the grand Plaza de la Constitucion. And most gourmands flock to trendy Mercado de la Merced for fresh fish, cheese and cured ham.

Good for: Historical attractions, restaurants, shopping

Carretera de Cadiz is the best area to stay in Malaga for refreshing dips at Sacaba and Misericordia beaches, with fish restaurants steps from the sand. It’s easy to spot the fabulously decorative La Termica building for art exhibitions and flamenco shows. Check the schedule for major concerts and sporting events at Jose Maria Martin Carpena Arena.

Good for: Major events, beaches, cultural activities

Perfectly wedged between the ocean and the hills, the Este district features a range of characterful neighborhoods. Relax within the traditional fishing village vibes of Pedregalejo and El Palo, where life’s all about kayaking or strolling along the promenade before beach bar drinks. Inland, set out on the hiking trails of Montes de Malaga Natural Park.

Good for: Beaches, water sports, hiking

Almost year-round sunshine, golden sands and the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean make the beaches in Malaga world-class. Don’t miss Playa de la Malagueta. The central location, a promenade lined with chiringuitos (fish shacks) and a playground make this Blue-Flag-awarded beach a family favorite. For more tranquil shores and some of the region’s best seafood restaurants, head to Playa Pedregalejo.

For shopping in Malaga, the spotlight is on Calle Larios, a pedestrian-friendly stretch lined with big-name stores. Take a leisurely stroll down Calle Nueva for designer boutiques and unique gifts. If it’s time to escape the heat of summer, visit Centro Comercial Larios Centro for two levels of air-conditioned retail therapy.

The museums in Malaga have helped the capital of the Costa del Sol earn its standing as a ‘City of Culture.’ The Centre Pompidou Malaga building, like a giant Rubik’s Cube, is as exciting as the art exhibitions inside. Admire sketches and sculptures along with paintings by the great master at the Picasso Museum. Vintage hats join Ferraris at the Automobile and Fashion Museum. Get a Malaga Pass so you can skip the lines at all museums.

Nightlife in Malaga starts with sunsets and sangria at Playa de la Malagueta’s beachfront bars. Food and drink venues around Soho’s Calle Pinzon fill up after shows at the Teatro de Soho. In Centro, sip cocktails at posh rooftop restaurants and dance till dawn in clubs surrounding Plaza de Uncibay and Plaza de la Merced. ATICO Bar & Restaurant, on the 15th floor of the AC Hotel Malaga Palacio, is where to go for views and good vibes.

Running straight for the tapas restaurants in Malaga? We don’t blame you. Find crunchy ‘gambas en gabardina’ (battered prawns) and ‘croquetas’ (croquettes) at venues along Calle Granada. Fine dining restaurants line the waterfront promenade at Muelle Uno, including the Michelin-starred favorite Jose Carlos Garcia. Combine views of Malaga Cathedral with modernized tapas at El Refectorium Catedral.

If you’re visiting on Sunday, you’ll find some awesome free things to do in Malaga. Many museums, including Alcazaba fortress, offer free entry for the last few hours of opening. Otherwise, discover fountains and sculptures in Paseo del Parque or wander along the seafront promenade, El Palmeras de las Sorpresas. Malaga’s public beaches are always free for everyone to enjoy.