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Discover Málaga, Spain Beyond the Beaches

Made famous by the nearby beaches of Costa del Sol, Malaga is one of the most visited regions in Spain. But this destination has more to offer than just seaside and sunshine! The town was founded by Phoenicians and was of great importance in the Moorish epoch. Tour the interesting historical remains left within the town as well as throughout the entire province

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Description

As you explore Malaga, the city’s rich history comes to life — from its founding around 900 B.C. by the Phoenicians to the layers left behind by Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, and Arabs. Each chapter has left its mark, shaping the Malaga you see today. The legacy of the city’s most famous son, Pablo Picasso, is everywhere. His presence is felt in the streets, in the local pride, and most notably at the Museo Picasso, which opened in 2003 and helped spark a new wave of cultural revival. Not far from the museum, you’ll find some of the city’s most remarkable heritage sites: a Roman theatre, a Moorish fortress, and one of Spain’s oldest bullrings. Across the Old Town, the Contemporary Art Centre (CAC) presents cutting-edge international work, while nearby, Plaza del Obispo regularly hosts open-air exhibitions. Close to the Cathedral, Teatro Cervantes continues to bring music, theatre, and dance to locals and visitors alike — proof that Malaga’s creative spirit is still very much alive.

Useful information

Population:

595,000 (2025)

Currency:

Euro (€, EUR)

Emergency Info:

Emergency: 112
Fire Brigade: 080
National Police: 091

Opening Hours:

Do & See

View of Alcazaba, Malaga, Spain. Malaga Alcazaba is considered one of the most beautiful in Spain. It was built on the slopes of the Gibralfaro mountain by Muslims during Middle Ages.

Alcazaba

The Alcazaba is an 11th-century palatial fortification which stands as a testament to Malaga’s rich Moorish past. You can walk up if you’re feeling active, or take the bus if it’s too hot — it drops y... Read More

Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden

Just outside the city, this 19th-century garden was once the private estate of the Loring-Heredia family. Today it’s open to the public, with winding paths, tropical and subtropical plants, a huge col... Read More

Centre Pompidou in Malaga, Spain

Centre Pompidou Malaga

A colourful glass cube by the port marks the only Pompidou outside France. Inside, there’s a mix of modern and contemporary art from the main collection in Paris, with rotating exhibits and some perma... Read More

Close view of the Church of the Holy Martyrs Ciriaco and Paula, located in Malaga city, Spain.

Church of the Holy Martyrs Ciriaco and Paula

If you enjoy the history and splendour of old churches, Iglesia de los Santos Mártires Ciriaco y Paula will certainly impress you. Built in the 15th century in Gothic style, the church's exterior boas... Read More

Russian  Dolls Matreshka Moscow

Colección del Museo Ruso

This compact museum brings a slice of Russian art and culture to Malaga, with pieces borrowed from the Leningrad State Museum. The collection covers everything from grand, classical works to more mode... Read More

Cueva del Tesoro, the only marine cave in Europe that can be visited

Cueva del Tesoro

A few kilometres outside Málaga in Rincón de la Victoria, this marine cave is one of the few in the world formed by water erosion. It’s small but interesting, with narrow tunnels, odd rock shapes, and... Read More

Caminito del Rey Hike, Malaga, Spain

El Caminito del Rey Hike

Around an hour outside Málaga, this cliffside path takes you through narrow walkways, deep gorges, and a high suspension bridge at the end. It’s about 8 km one-way and takes a few hours, depending on ... Read More

Malaga festival

Feria de Agosto

Malaga’s biggest party of the year happens every August. It kicks off with fireworks and runs for about a week, with two main zones: one in the city centre during the day, and the official fairgrounds... Read More

Dining

Couscous

Al-Yamal

Al-Yamal is the first Arabic restaurant in Malaga, and it still holds up. It’s small, warmly lit, and full of detail — the décor is inspired by the Mosque of Córdoba, with candles on every table. The ... Read More

Delicious Spanish Tapas

Bodega El Pimpi

El Pimpi is Malaga’s most iconic restaurant — a sprawling 18th-century bodega filled with Andalusian charm, colourful tiles, and walls lined with wine barrels signed by local celebrities and Spanish i... Read More

Spanish tapas called pintxos of the Basque country

Casa Lola

Casa Lola has grown into a small empire in Malaga, but the original taberna on Calle Granada still steals the show. It’s compact, noisy in the best way, and often packed within minutes of opening. The... Read More

Grilled sardines, known as Espetos, are a traditional Spanish cuisine in Malaga, Spain. The fresh fish is cooked on skewers over an open wood fire barbeque pit shaped as a boat. Hot Málaga sardines.

Chiringuito El Tintero

El Tintero is one of Malaga’s most entertaining places to eat — a loud, no-menu seafood spot right on the beach in El Palo. Waiters wander between tables shouting out dishes like crispy fried fish, ga... Read More

Fried anchovies from Malaga. Traditional Spanish tapa recipe.

La Campana

This no-frills little tavern is all about doing one thing right: pescaíto frito. Crispy, golden anchovies and other fresh fish are fried to perfection in olive oil and best washed down with a cold bee... Read More

Cordoban salmorejo with ham and egg shavings is a traditional Spanish cold tomato soup.

La Tasquita de en Medio

Right in Malaga’s historic centre, La Tasquita brings traditional Andalusian and Mediterranean flavours with a modern twist—pintxos, montaditos, varied tortillas, pescaíto, raciones, and Alicante-styl... Read More

Spanish seafood paella.  Paella española de mariscos.

Los Marangós Molina Lario

Just off the cathedral in the heart of Malaga, Los Marangós is a relaxed local favourite known for its generous tapas, fresh seafood, and friendly service. Enjoy a solid line-up of Spanish classics—gr... Read More

Olives at market

Mercado de Atarazanas

Mercado de Atarazanas is one of Malaga’s most iconic food spots, where locals come for fresh seafood, jamón, olives, cheeses—and where visitors stay for the tapas. Housed in a striking 19th-century ir... Read More

Cafés

Eggs Benedict- toasted English muffins, ham, poached eggs, and delicious buttery hollandaise sauce

Brunchit

Brunchit is a lively brunch spot just around the corner from Mercado de Atarazanas. Indulge in fresh-roasted coffee and colourful brunch plates like healthy bowls, pancakes, avocado toast, and Eggs Be... Read More

Churros with hot chocolate

Casa Aranda

Eating churros is a must when visiting Malaga. And for nearly nine decades, Casa Aranda has been serving this delicious treat to be dipped in velvety, hot chocolate to both locals and visitors with gr... Read More

Summertime. Close-up view of man buying cone of ice-cream in kiosk, outdoors.

Casa Mira

Casa Mira is an institution in Málaga. Praised by locals and tourists alike, it’s often called the city’s best ice cream—a claim backed up by the long queues out front. It’s also the oldest ice cream ... Read More

Black bread toast with fried egg, avocado and salmon spread in blue plate with coffee in background

La Recova

La Recova is a quirky café, where antiques and crafts spill across the walls and make you wonder whether you’re in a shop or a café. Their signature breakfast is a thick slice of bread with paper-egg-... Read More

sweet crepe

Santa Coffee Soho

Santa Coffee Soho is a café and roastery in Malaga’s Soho district where they roast their own beans on-site. You can choose how you want it brewed—filter, espresso, cold, whatever suits you. They also... Read More

Bars & Nightlife

Red wine pouring into a wine glass.

Antigua Casa de Guardia

A Malaga landmark since 1840, this old-school bar pours fortified wines straight from the barrel. Tapas are minimal—cold cuts, cheese, maybe a bit of seafood to go with your glass. It’s mostly standin... Read More

Dj mixes the track in the nightclub at party. Headphones in foreground and DJ hands in motion

Bambu

Right in the heart of Malaga, Bambu is a buzzy nightclub where local DJs keep the energy high with a mix of current hits and reggaeton. It’s a popular late-night stop for drinks, dancing, and even a b... Read More

Cocktails in bar

Bubbles Club

Bubbles is a trendy nightclub offering an eclectic and exciting experience for everyone. It hosts nights filled with live music and energetic parties, ensuring a fantastic time for all who step throug... Read More

Young people dancing at party

La Biblioteca

La Biblioteca is a small, library-themed bar in Málaga’s Old Town. Shelves, books and retro touches set the scene, but it’s really a late-night spot for dancing and cocktails. Some nights lean toward ... Read More

a plate of 'ensaladilla rusa' (russian salad) made of potatoes, shrimps, egg, onion and mayonnaise - a typical spanish snack or tapas

Lo Güeno Mesón

Lo Güeno Mesón is a traditional Spanish tapas bar serving Andalusian paella and grilled delicacies, along with a selection of tapas and beer.

Bartender is stirring cocktails on bar counter

MalaFama

Despite its name, which means 'bad reputation,' this is a great place for dancing and drinking in the centre of Malaga. Combined with their affordable prices, cool music, and a fun crowd and you've go... Read More

Beer and clover

Morrissey's Irish Pub

Morrissey's is a typical Irish Pub in the heart of Malaga, close to the Picasso Museum, offering a wide array of beers, cocktails, and spirits, as well as a food menu which includes burgers, hot dogs,... Read More

party, holidays, celebration, nightlife and people concept - smiling friends applauding at concert in club

Sala Gold

Sala Gold is a stylish nightclub featuring themed parties and DJs, plus elaborate light shows seven days a week until the early hours of the morning.

Shopping

Sunny view of Larios street in Malaga, Andalusia province, Spain.

Calle Larios & Calle Nueva

Calle Larios is one of Malaga’s main shopping streets — pedestrianised, elegant, and lined with stylish boutiques and big-name brands beneath grand neoclassical facades. Just around the corner, Calle ... Read More

Casually dressed beautiful couple walking through the mall carrying a lot of shopping bags

Centro Comercial Larios Centro

Centro Comercial Larios Centro is a popular and expansive shopping mall that caters to a diverse range of tastes and needs. From trendy fashion boutiques to an array of dining options and a supermarke... Read More

sale, consumerism and people concept - happy young women with shopping bags choosing clothes at clothing shop

Designer Outlet Malaga

Just 15 minutes from Malaga's city centre and right next to Plaza Mayor, Designer Outlet Malaga is an open-air complex featuring big-brand shopping with serious discounts — often up to 70% off. You'll... Read More

Couple in shopping mall

El Corte Inglés

Spain's department store colossus is both loved and hated, but it successfully performs the main task of a department store, which is to offer most things to most people. Designer fashions, their own ... Read More

Sunny view of promenade near port of Malaga, Andalusia province, Spain.

Muelle Uno

Muelle Uno is an open-air shopping promenade right on the waterfront, with palm-lined walkways, sea views, and a relaxed vibe. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, international brands, restaurants, ... Read More

Young woman doing shopping and choosing clothes

Plaza Mayor

Located just outside the city centre, Plaza Mayor is a sprawling mall housing a wide array of shops, ranging from popular international brands to local boutiques. Visitors can indulge in retail therap... Read More

Chef cutting dry-cured spanish ham Jamon.

Ultramarinos Zoilo

Ultramarinos Zoilo is a long-standing market offering an exquisite selection of traditional Malaga products, including confectionery, sweet wines, cured meats, and cheeses.

man carrying shopping bags

Vialia Centro Comercial

Housed in a railway station, Vialia Centro Comercial is a modern shopping mall featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, a casino, and a cinema.

Tourist Information

Malaga, Spain

Best Time to Visit

Malaga enjoys a mild climate year-round, with warm winters and hot, dry summers. Spring (March to June) is one of the best times to visit — the weather is pleasant, and the city feels lively without b... Read More

Spanish Schengen visa in a passport

Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Spain, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada... Read More

airplane between palm trees

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)

Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is located just 10 km from the city centre — about 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. The Cercanías C-1 train is the fastest option, getting you into town in aro... Read More

public bus, Malaga, Spain

Public Transport

Malaga’s public transport is easy to use and covers most of what travellers need. There’s a two-line metro, city buses, and Cercanías trains that connect nearby towns and the airport. They all use the... Read More

taxi sign

Taxi

It’s easy to find a taxi in Malaga — official ones are white with a blue diagonal stripe and a roof light, and you can catch them at taxi ranks, the airport, train stations, or just by flagging one do... Read More

woman hand holding and plugging white electrical plug in wall outlet socket at home

Electricity

Spain’s power grid operates at 230 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz, using Type F (Schuko plug) and Type C (Europlug) outlets. Both types accept plugs with two round prongs, common across continental E... Read More

pharmacy sign

Pharmacy

Malaga’s pharmacies are mostly independent, with a few well-known ones in convenient spots. Farmacia Caffarena, on Alameda Principal 2 in the city centre, is open 24 hours and carries everything from ... Read More

an assortment of stamps

Post

Málaga’s main post office is on Calle Santa Lucía 7 and is open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 8:30pm. Services include sending letters and parcels, collecting post, and P.O. box pick-up. You can spo... Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Malaga is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasantly warm, and there are fewer tourists. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city comfortably without the summer crowds.

A stay of 3 to 4 days in Malaga is ideal to explore its main attractions, enjoy the beaches, and take a day trip to nearby destinations. This allows you to visit the Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, and Malaga Cathedral, as well as relax on the Costa del Sol.

In Malaga, don't miss the Alcazaba, a stunning Moorish fortress, and the nearby Roman Theatre. Visit the Picasso Museum to appreciate works by the famous artist born here. The Malaga Cathedral and the vibrant Atarazanas Market are also must-sees for their architecture and local culture.

Malaga is a walkable city, especially in the historic center. For longer distances, the city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a metro. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available for convenience.

Yes, Malaga offers a variety of traditional dishes. Be sure to try 'espeto de sardinas' (grilled sardines), 'ajoblanco' (a cold almond soup), and 'porra antequerana' (a thicker version of gazpacho). Pair your meal with a glass of local sweet Malaga wine.

Malaga hosts several vibrant festivals, including the Malaga Fair in August, which features flamenco, music, and traditional costumes. Semana Santa (Holy Week) is another significant event with elaborate processions and religious ceremonies.

Yes, there are several excellent day trips from Malaga. Consider visiting the picturesque town of Ronda, the historic city of Granada with the Alhambra, or the charming white village of Mijas. Each offers unique cultural and scenic experiences.

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