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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.
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.
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.
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 51 | Tours 828 | Reviews 22,218 |
Barcelona-based Monica loves Malaga. Find her in Soho having tapas and beers, or chowing down on fresh fish by La Malagueta beach.
get lost in the city center, admire the top monuments, and enjoy a cold drink on a streetside patio.
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.
visiting the Pompidou museum and having lunch nearby.
sample some “pescaíto frito” (fried fish) and a Cruzcampo beer at one of the city’s many streetside bars or cafés.
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.
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.
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.
...MoreTwo 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.
...MoreDon’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.
...MoreMalaga 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.
...MoreYes. 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.
...MoreNo. 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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