A guide to visiting Malaga, Spain
Malaga is more than just an airport connection to the Costa del Sol; it is a great solo travel destination with a lot to offer. Situated on the south coast of Spain, Malaga not only has beautiful beaches but also a rich history and culture, making it a really exciting city to explore. With good weather for the majority of the year, Malaga is an ideal place for those wanting to enjoy some time away in the sun. I’d recommend visiting the city in either May or September where you can enjoy nice weather, but avoid the crowds during the peak summer season. The city itself is very walkable, with the majority of major attractions and monuments close together. I also found the city incredibly safe as a female solo traveller.
My name is Emily and I have lived in the Malaga province of Andalusia for over two years. I’m delighted to share with you my Malaga travel guide. I hope this inspires you to visit this Spanish city and even helps you to plan your own trip there. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!
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HOW TO GET TO malaga
Malaga has one airport called Malaga Costa del Sol, which has connections to other major airports across Spain and Europe. The best and most affordable way to reach Malaga city centre from the airport is by train. As you exit arrivals the station will be directly ahead of you. You can purchase train tickets at the station ticket office or in advance online through the Omio website or app. New to Omio? Use the code APPWINTER10 to get 10% off your first app booking as a new customer. You also have the option of getting a taxi from Malaga airport to the city centre which will take approximately 20 minutes.
The best way to explore Malaga city itself is on foot, so you can enjoy exploring the historic centre and sites. Malaga does also have access to a metro system which is easy to use and affordable.
Top places to see in malaga
Malaga Historic Centre
You will find the majority of Malaga’s major monuments and attractions within the historic centre, so I would recommend basing yourself in this area during your stay in the city. The historic centre is the perfect place to simply wander and explore, with its many narrow winding streets, towering palms and beautiful buildings at every turn. Here you will find an abundance of cafes, shops, restaurants and bars. One of the best things to do here is enjoy tapas or a drink al fresco. I’d recommend stopping by the Plaza de la Constitución, a very pretty square perfect to sit back and soak up the buzz and atmosphere of the city.
The buildings in Malaga’s historic centre are what truly stood out for me. Their colourful facades with beautifully decorative windows, colourful shutters and ornate balconies give the city it’s distinct character and charm. The buildings look even more spectacular when they are lit up in the evening, so make sure to take a stroll as the sun goes down. Malaga also has many beautiful churches within the historic centre. Even if you are not religious, the architecture and the decadence of the churches here are not to be missed. Iglesia de San Juan Bautista is a particular favourite of mine, with its painted façade and contrasting baroque interior.
If you are a lover of art, then a visit to the Picasso Museum is an absolute must. The artist was in fact born and raised in the city. I’d highly recommend booking a ticket in advance as this is understandably one of Malaga’s top attractions. If you have time, make sure to visit the Carmen Thyssen museum which has a fine art collection by numerous Spanish and European artists to enjoy. TOP TIP: Want to visit Malaga on a budget? I’d recommend looking at getting a Malaga Pass, which gives you access to Malaga’s museums and galleries for less. Plus, it means you skip the queues! Available for 24 hour, 48 hour, 72 hour and a week, save 33% of Malaga’s major attractions.
Alcazaba of Malaga and Roman Ampitheatre
If you only have the chance to visit one place in all of Malaga, then it has to be the Alcazaba and Roman Amphitheatre. Situated at the foot of the Gibralfaro mountain, both sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient history.
Start by visiting the Roman Amphitheatre, which you can see at street level or near the entrance of the Alcazaba. Dating as far back as the first century BC, this is one of the oldest monuments in Malaga and it was only discovered back in 1951. You can learn all about the site at the visitor centre, which is free to visit, and see artifacts uncovered during the restorations. If you proceed up a flight of stairs near the visitor centre, you can get a photo with the popular ‘MALAGA’ sign overlooking the amphitheatre.
The Alcazaba (meaning fortified palace), was constructed by the Muslims during their occupation of the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages. This truly is a remarkable display of Moorish architecture which has stood the test of time. Inside the walls you will find two sections: the fortress with its maze of narrow corridors and cobbled floors, and the palace with its beautiful patios, landscaped gardens, fountains and breathtaking views of the city. You will also find Roman columns and marble used from the amphitheatre ruins below within the Moorish walls, making the Alcazaba truly a one of a kind.
TOP TIP: There is a fee to enter the Alcazaba and I would recommend buying a combined ticket with the Castillo de Gibralfaro (more information to follow), which is directly above the site. Tickets can be bought at the entrance to the Alcazaba and you can buy a guided tour ticket in advance click here I would allow at least 90 minutes to explore the Alcazaba and then follow this with a visit the Castillo de Gibralfaro.
Castillo de Gibralfaro
If you want to enjoy the best panoramic views of Malaga and beyond, then you must visit the Gibralfaro Castle. Situated high up on the hills overlooking the city, port and surrounding mountain ranges, this ancient castle has remains that date back as far the Phoenician’s. Here you can walk the walls of this impressive fortress and visit a small visitor centre, which tells you all about this castle’s significant history.
In order to reach the castle, you do have to walk up hill which can be tough in hotter conditions. But with the stunning views you will see along the way, trust me when I say the climb is worth it! Start at the entrance to the Alcazaba and take the path up to the right hand side. Along the way you will find one of the best viewpoints in the whole city, overlooking Malaga’s bull ring, the Centre Pompidou and the port. This viewpoint at sunset is truly spectacular. If however you don’t want to make the climb, you can get a taxi or the number 35 bus from Parque de Malaga to reach the top.
TOP TIP: There is a fee to enter the castle and I would recommend buying a combined ticket together with the Alcazaba.
Malaga Cathedral
Situated in the the historic centre is one of the most impressive Cathedrals I’ve visited in all of Spain (and I’ve been to quite a few). This building has the wow factor and it’s not hard to miss given its size! With a gothic exterior and decorative baroque interior, the architecture and design of this 16th century building is truly breathtaking. You can also take a guided rooftop tour of the Cathedral, which offers great views of the city and allows you to get close to the impressive bell tower. There is a fee to enter the cathedral, which includes an audio guide click here
If you don’t have time to go inside Malaga Cathedral, make sure to marvel at this impressive building either from the external courtyard on Molina Lario street, or from the nearby Plaza del Obispo. The Cathedral also looks magical lit up at night, so I would recommend taking an evening stroll here too.
Malaga Port
Take a short 10 minute stroll from the historic city centre to the wonderful port area of Malaga. First you will pass through the Palmeral de las Sorpresas, a waterfront promenade that stretches under a modern concrete structure, before making your way towards an array of market stalls, shops, bars and restaurants. Along the promenade you will often find street performers and entertainers and there always promises to be an exciting atmosphere here. As you make your way along the waterfront, you will likely be met by a few superyachts to marvel at.
Towards the end of the port you will reach a lighthouse and access to Playa de la Malagueta, one of the city’s most popular and beautiful beaches. Here you will find many chiringuitos (beach bars) and places to rent a sunbed to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the sun. It is here you will find the ‘Malagueta’ sign on the beach.
If you are a lover of contemporary and modern art, then the Centre Pompidou is well worth a visit. The building is not hard to miss in the port, with its iconic colourful cube exterior. The centre usually has numerous events and exhibitions available. TOP TIP: Save 33% off Malaga’s main attractions and skip the queues with a Malaga Pass, including the Centre Pompidou.
The best of the rest
Soho Malaga - discover murals and an open air urban art gallery in the streets of Soho or the Lagunillas neighbourhood of Malaga
Mercado Central de Atarazanas - one for the foodies! This daily market offers fresh produce and various food stalls. Here you can enjoy tapas and fresh ‘pescaíto’ (typical small fried fish) in the bars in the market, or just to stroll through and marvel at the 14th century architecture.
Parque de Malaga - between the historic centre and the port are the city’s beautiful public gardens, a green oasis where you can escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a tranquil stroll surrounded by nature.
Calle Larios - shop until you drop along Malaga’s main shopping street Calle Larios. This street is truly spectacular at Christmas time with the lights that are displayed here.
Best day trips from Malaga
The wider province of Malaga has lots of offer by means of a day trip from Malaga city! No transport? No problem as GetYourGuide offers a great choice of day trips with pick up included from Malaga city centre. Here are my top day trips you can take from Malaga:
Caminito Del Rey - The Caminito del Rey is a spectacular hike where you will walk on boardwalks over 100m high through cliffs, canyons, and a large valley. Book here as part of a group tour which gives you transport from the city, guaranteed access and a guide.
Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas - If you want to two of Andalusia’s most unique and spectacular destinations, you can do with a group tour from Malaga. Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas are close to one another, meaning you can see both in one day! Check out my Ronda Travel Guide and Setenil de las Bodegas Travel Guide to see why you have to visit these incredible place.
Antequera - If you want to enjoy some time outdoors and visit a site of ancient history, I’d recommend a day trip from Malaga seeing the Dolmens of Antequera and Torcal de Antequera. See Andalusia’s answer to Stonehenge with the ancient Neolithic burial sites before hiking in El Torcal, a UNESCO world heritage site with impressive rock formations.
Nerja and Frigiliana - Visit one of Spain’s prettiest white villages and coastal towns in one day with a day trip from Malaga. Admire the white streets and floral decorations in the mountain village of Frigiliana and enjoy one of the most stunning coastal towns on the Costa del Sol in Nerja. Nerja is home to an impressive cave which is included as part of day tour from Malaga.
Thank you for taking the time to read my Malaga travel guide. I hope this inspires you to visit Malaga and plan your own trip to the city. If you have any questions please post in the comments or drop me a DM on my Instagram page.
Planning a solo trip to Malaga? This blog shares my top must see places to see when visiting the beautiful city of Malaga. A cultural city packed with history, yet with a modern feel, this blog will hopefully inspire you to visit one of the most exciting destinations on the Costa Del Sol.