Colorful glass cube at Centre Pompidou Malaga, Spain

Things to do in  Malaga

Picasso was here

Famous as Picasso’s birthplace and the gateway to Spain’s Costa del Sol, Malaga mixes sunshiney vacation vibes with Andalucia's indomitable spirit. This city has something for all tastes, from hotel-lined beaches to its cobbled Old Town and palm-fringed plazas. Explore museums like the Museo Picasso and the Contemporary Art Centre of Malaga, roam its Moorish Alcazaba, sample tapas on culinary tours, and watch fiery flamenco. Even then, many of the best things to do in Malaga still await: Cue sunset- and dolphin-watching cruises, hiking the Caminito del Rey gorge, and visiting Ronda, Granada, and Gibraltar.

Top 15 attractions in Malaga

El Caminito del Rey

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One of Andalucia’s top attractions, El Caminito del Rey is a narrow hiking path known for its nearly 2-mile (3-km) stretch of man-made boardwalks and glass footbridges that hug the sides of sheer cliffs and hang over river gorges. The roughly 3-hour hike takes you on paths 350 feet above the Guadalhorce River, offering stunning views of the Gaitanes Canyon (Desfiladero de los Gaitanes).More

Malaga Alcazaba

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One of Málaga’s most popular attractions, the Alcazaba is an atmospheric Moorish palace and fortress with ornamental gardens. Take in panoramic views of the city as you marvel at the ingenious design tricks the Moors used to protect their stronghold.More

Gibralfaro Castle (Castillo de Gibralfaro)

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Perched high up on Mont Gibralfaro, Castillo de Gibralfaro offers commanding views of the city of Malaga and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally built by the Moors in the 10th century, the castle is one of Malaga’s best-known sights and is featured on the city’s flag.More

Malaga Cathedral (Cathedral de la Encarnación)

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Built between 1528 and 1782, after Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand expelled the Moors from the Iberian Peninsula, Málaga Cathedral (Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga) is one of the city’s top historic landmarks. Designed by architect Diego de Siloé, the cathedral is a unique combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque styles.More

Málaga Roman Theatre (Teatro Romano de Málaga)

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The oldest monument in Málaga, the Roman Theatre (Teatro Romano de Málaga) was built in the first Roman emperor Augustus’ reign. The amphitheater was unearthed as part of a civic building project in the 1950s and has since been excavated and restored.More

Constitution Square (Plaza de la Constitucion)

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Malaga’s largest and most iconic public square, the Plaza de la Constitution holds significance in both the city’s past and present. Serving as a public space since the 15th century, it remains an important center of Malaga daily life today. Palm trees sit beside historic Spanish architecture surrounding the fountain Fuente de Génova. Lined with alleyways full of small shops and cafes, it is a largely pedestrian area that’s great for exploring the city’s history.The square was home to Malaga’s city hall until the 19th century, having since been renamed from Plaza de Cuatro Calles (four streets) and the Plaza Mayor. Once the home of festivals, celebrations, and even bullfights, it is now a central meeting spot for residents of the city. Cultural, political, and religious events still take place here throughout the year, including the impressiveSemana Santa processions and festivities.It is considered to be the heart of Malaga’s historical quarter and a must-see while in the city.More

Plaza de la Merced

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A public square situated in the center of Málaga, Plaza de la Merced has been a functional part of the city since the Roman Empire. It is best known as being one of the largest plazas in Málaga as well as being located steps away from famed artist Pablo Picasso’s childhood home.More

Atarazanas Market

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Atarazanas Market (also known as Mercado Central de Ataranzanas) is a Málaga landmark that served as a shipyard, warehouse, and barracks before becoming the city’s leading food market. The Moorish-influenced building has been refurbished, and it’s once more a warren of stalls set amid delicate wrought ironwork below a domed stained-glass window.More

Museo Picasso Málaga

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Museo Picasso Málaga, situated in the city of the master’s birth, showcases a collection of more than 200 pieces donated to the museum by Picasso’s family. While the Blue and Rose periods are missing, the collection highlights the artist’s personal side, with works he painted for his family or kept for himself.More

Ronda

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Perched on El Tajo canyon, Ronda is set on one of Spain’s most dramatic landscapes and possesses a rich history documented by ancient rock paintings, towering stone bridges, and 14th-century ruins. Today, the city’s dramatic cliffs, local wineries, and rustic charm make it an ideal mountain getaway or day trip destination.More

Malagueta Beach (Playa de La Malagueta)

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One of Andalucia’s cleanest urban beaches, the man-made Malagueta Beach (Playa de la Malagueta) sweeps along the coastline for 0.7 miles (1.2 kilometers) and is backed by palm trees, high-rise hotels, and luxurious apartments. Take a dip in the calm surf, relax beneath a parasol, and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere.More

Carmen Thyssen Museum (Museo Carmen Thyssen)

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One of Malaga’s top galleries, the Carmen Thyssen Museum houses the private collection of Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza, a wealthy art collector. Occupying the converted 16th-century Palacio de Villalón and an adjoining modern annex, the museum rewards visitors with a host of magnificent Spanish art and other works, set in serene surroundings.More

Automobile and Fashion Museum (Museo Automovilistico y de la Moda)

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The innovative Automobile and Fashion Museum is found in a former tobacco factory dating from 1927; it has an entrancing cross-section of exhibits and is the brainchild of Portuguese car fanatic and art collector Joao Magalhaes. The museum’s USP is the unusual combination of vintage vehicles displayed against a background of contemporary art and haute-couture design.Magalhaes’ 80 vintage cars are presented in light-filled galleries stuffed with modern art and come in all vintages from the late 19th century to present day and beyond. His private art collection covers contemporary photography, splashes of graffiti art inspired by Jean-Paul Basquiat and Jackson Pollock, installations forged from wheel rims and sculpture resembling the anatomy of expensive cars. The museum also celebrates the close historic links of brands such as Ferrari and Aston Martin with exclusive fashion houses; the seven elegant clothing displays show exotic gowns from Balenciaga, Dior, YSL and Schiaparelli.A recent addition to the mix is the EcoMuseum, dedicated to raising awareness of sustainability and green energy; star exhibits here include a steam car designed in 1910, the world’s first electric car — built in 1916 — and several futuristic prototypes, including a vehicle powered by hydrogen. If you’ve got time when visiting, walk to the museum along the seafront promenade, which takes about 40 minutes.More

Mijas

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Sprawled across a mountain slope some 1,475 feet (450 meters) above the Mediterranean Sea, the whitewashed village of Mijas Pueblo still looks much the same as it would have centuries ago. While the historic center retains its old-fashioned air, the Mijas Costa coastal area is dotted with golf courses and modern hotels.More

Centre Pompidou Málaga

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An offshoot of the Parisian art gallery of the same name, the Centre Pompidou Málaga houses over 100 contemporary masterpieces by artists such as Kahlo, Picasso, and Magritte. Here, the exterior is as notable as the interior—Centre Pompidou Málaga is housed within a modernist multicolored greenhouse known as "The Cube."More

Top activities in Malaga

Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces and Generalife Private Tour from Malaga
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Caminito del Rey Tour Direct from Malaga
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The Genuine Malaga Wine & Tapas Tour
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Tangier, Morocco Day Trip from Costa del Sol
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Gibraltar with St Michael Caves Guided Tour from Costa del Sol
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Full Day to Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens Direct from Malaga
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Cordoba Tour with Mosque, Synagogue and Patios Direct from Malaga
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Caminito del Rey group walking tour
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Caminito del Rey Trekking Walkway
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Expert Tour of Malaga in Private Eco Tuk Tuk
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All about Malaga

When to visit

If you’re seeking warm summer sun, Malaga delivers. The city basks in hot weather from June to September—particularly during August, when average daytime temperatures hit 88°F (31°C). The shoulder seasons are ideal for sightseeing, as the city experiences milder yet still sunny weather ideal for exploring. While summer overflows with concerts and festivals like August’s Malaga Fair (Feria de Málaga), spring and fall are no slouches either, with eventful things to do in Malaga like the Easter processions and October’s Halloween celebrations.

Getting around

Central Malaga is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so most visitors ditch the idea of driving in favor of walking. That said, the city’s public transport systems are extensive and offer reloadable travel cards for convenience: Choose between the frequent buses that crisscross the city and the reliable trains that ply the 2-line metro. Alternatives include fairly inexpensive taxis and bike rentals, made attractive by the city’s growing web of cycling paths.

Traveler tips

When you need to fuel up for a scout around Malaga’s historical center, try breakfast at La Recova, a tapas bar-combined-antiques shop tucked away on the Pasaje Nuestra Senora de los Dolores de San Juan near the cathedral. This tiny cubbyhole is nicely informal and famous for its breakfasts. Pair your coffee with homemade toast accompanied by preserves and savory dips dolloped into cardboard egg cartons—the perfect energizers for a morning of sightseeing.

Attractions
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Tours
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A local’s pocket guide to Malaga

Monica Nunez

Barcelona-based Monica loves Malaga. Find her in Soho having tapas and beers, or chowing down on fresh fish by La Malagueta beach.

The first thing you should do in Malaga is...

get lost in the city center, admire the top monuments, and enjoy a cold drink on a streetside patio.

A perfect Saturday in Malaga...

starts with street art in the Soho neighborhood, a visit to the Picasso museum, and drinks on La Alcazaba rooftop. Finish your day with dinner at El Pimpi, accompanied by sweet wine.

One touristy thing that lives up to the hype is...

visiting the Pompidou museum and having lunch nearby.

To discover the "real" Malaga...

sample some “pescaíto frito” (fried fish) and a Cruzcampo beer at one of the city’s many streetside bars or cafés.

For the best view of the city...

go to the AC Hotel rooftop—it has an amazing view of the cathedral, castle, and sea. Having a cocktail or a glass of wine while you admire the city is a must.

One thing people get wrong...

is spending most of their time on the Costa del Sol and not much time in the city. Malaga has a lot to offer including good museums and nice restaurants.

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People Also Ask

What is Malaga famous for?

A port city in the region of Andalusia, Malaga is known for its charming Old Town, golden beaches, and historic sites including two Moorish citadels. The city is also famous as the birthplace of painter Pablo Picasso—visit the Picasso Museum to learn about his life and work.

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How many days should I spend in Malaga?

Two days here should allow visitors time to cover the city’s basics. In addition to checking out the Picasso Museum and Alcazaba Moorish palace, visitors could spend an additional day or two relaxing on the beach or hopping among tapas bars before exploring more of the Costa del Sol.

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What should I not miss in Malaga?

Don’t miss the Picasso Museum (the city is Picasso’s birthplace), Alcazaba (a medieval Moorish palace), or the striking Cathedral (check out the rooftop views). For tapas culture, wander Atarazanas Market. Don’t leave without seeing the golden sands at La Malagueta Beach.

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What is there to do around Malaga?

Malaga is the gateway to the scenic Costa del Sol. This stretch of coastline in the south of Spain is home to popular seaside resort towns including Marbella, Torremolinos, and Fuengirola. There are also plenty of outdoor adventurous things to do in Malaga such as kayaking, boating, and fishing along the coast.

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Is Malaga a party place?

Yes. It’s a city known for its nightlife. Bustling tapas bars, live music venues, and nightclubs with quality DJs are the norm in Malaga. This coastal Spanish city is also home to a university, which contributes to its lively feel.

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Are tapas free in Malaga?

No. Tapas are not free everywhere. While the tradition of free tapas with a drink purchase may be found in Malaga, it is not commonplace in all bars. The cost is usually modest, which encourages the practice of hopping among bars for several rounds of snacks and drinks.

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