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We always wonder what we should do and see when going to new places. Often, people ask for recommendations for the off-the-beaten-path. But I love to see all the famous touristy stuff while trying to get oriented to the new place. You will find plenty of things to do in Malaga, and if you have time, you can explore the area around you, too. For art lovers, there is a surprisingly large amount of museums. There are Gibralfaro, Roman Theatre, and Alcazaba fortress for history lovers. For food lovers, there are plenty of restaurants. Even for Game of Thrones lovers, there are plenty of day trips. For sun and sea lovers there are excellent beaches and so on.
Malaga offers something for everyone. And whatever you decide to do and see in Malaga, I am sure you will love it. Let us start with a quick introduction to the city’s history to show you why it is such a diverse historical place with a mixture of old and modern architecture and culture.
Facts about Malaga
The first datings found about Malaga are around 3000 years old and go back to something called Phoenicians. You will see some artifacts from the Phoenicians beneath the Moorish Castle Alcazaba (more about this later). In the 6th century B.C. came the Greeks.
In 218 B.C., Málaga was colonized and further developed by the Romans, who stayed for more than six centuries. Under Roman rule, Málaga prospered as a trading port, with exports of iron, copper, and lead from the mines in nearby Ronda (which you should visit on a day trip). Romans also exported olive oil, wine, and garum (a relish of pickled fish) – would you dare to taste it?
Around 490 AD, Malaga was invaded by one of the Germanic Goths tribes – the Visigoths. Malaga put up a fierce fight, and when the Goths finally entered the city, they found it half deserted.
The Byzantine Emperor Justinian force captured the city for a time, and marble and stone were exported to construct the Sancta Sophia church in Constantinople. When the Byzantine enclaves were eradicated by 630 AD, Malaga (unlike Cartagena) was not destroyed.
In 711 A.D., the Moors invaded Spain and called it Al-Andalus. Málaga became a major Moorish city and port – the main port for Granada, famous for Figs and Wine. Moorish ruler Yusuf I built the Gibralfaro to defend against the Christian conquerors Isabella and Ferdinand. However, the defenses were not enough to keep them at bay, and after a bitter siege, Málaga fell to the Christians in 1487. It was one of the last cities to be taken by the Christian conquerors.
After the conquest, Moors in the city were persecuted, and their belongings were confiscated. The city mosque was converted into a Cathedral, which you will see in the middle of the old town of Malaga. At this point, the city fell into decline, followed by a revolt in 1568 by the Moors, which resulted in their complete expulsion from the region.
Malaga declined in the Golden Christian period, and nobility deserted the city. Their escape was probably one of the biggest reasons you will see little Christian architecture in Malaga from that period. The town also suffered from several lethal diseases.
The modern history of Malaga
At the beginning of 1800, Malaga was invaded by Napoleon, and several Spanish guerillas fought the French army. You will find the statue of the most famous two, General Jose Maria de Torrijos and Robert Boyd, on Plaza de la Merced.
In 1833, freedom and prosperity indeed returned to Málaga. Wealthy middle-class families returned to Malaga and invested in factories, shipyards, and sugar refineries. Málaga’s dessert wine had become the favorite tipple of Victorian ladies, and thus, wine exports soared.
Because of the climate, Malaga became an ideal foreign residence for wealthy English invalids from around the middle of the 19th century. However, prosperity was short-lived. In the early 20th century, the phylloxera virus (also known as the blight) struck the vineyards and wiped out entire crops, and other industries succumbed to global competition and collapsed.
The city lost its reputation in the lead-up to the Civil War when several groups of radicals started some revolts.
During the Civil War, Malaga was republican, and the population of the city was subjected to mass executions by conquering Nationalists, leaving an emotional scar on the town.
In the 1960s, things finally started to pick up again for Málaga. The city’s big break came from mass tourism made possible by the airliner. Franco, often accused of starving the south of industrial resources, quickly developed tourist infrastructures such as Malaga Airport and high-rise hotels in Torremolinos (a Malaga district until 1988). The AVE high-speed train connected Malaga to Madrid’s capital in just two and a half hours in 2004.
Malaga is now a tourist destination in its own right, with the city center including pedestrian zones, the Picasso Museum, Carmen Thyssen Museum, the Muelle Uno port development with a beautiful white promenade, and the Pompidou center. Becoming a modern city doesn’t mean Malaga’s rich history is forgotten.
Malaga airport transfer
There are several ways to get to Malaga City from the airport – bus, train, taxi, car rental, or pick-up service. Outside Terminal 3, on arrival level, you will find wheeled transportation – buses and taxis. You can get your bus tickets near the exit in Terminal 3 in the ticket machine – CC or cash. Malaga Airport Express Line (bus) will take you to Malaga in 15-25 minutes; the last bus leaves at 00:00 am. The bus stops in the city center.
The airport express C1 will take you to the city center of Malaga in 12 minutes. Be sure to get off the train at the last station, Centro-Alameda, and not at the previous one (Málaga – RENFE), the central railway station located 20 minutes walk from the city center. The train station at the airport is located beneath Terminal 3. The airport express runs every 20 minutes. The ticket costs 1,8 euros; you can purchase it in a vending machine. There is the staff you can ask for help if you need it.
You will find taxis just outside Terminal 3. The fare will vary slightly on the day and time of arrival. Check the final price of the route with the ones shown in the taxi area.
If you are hiring a car, use your GPS. The airport is located about 8 km from the city of Malaga and is connected to the section of the Mediterranean Highway A-7 / E-15, MA-21, and MA-21 road (old N-340).
You can also book a pickup service, and the driver will be waiting for you in the arrival hall with a sign with your name on it. The price will depend on the company, but will start at approximately 40 euros.
Things to do in Malaga
No matter the season you are visiting, there are always some things you can see and do. Museums are open, the Cathedral is open, and walking around the city is free unless you want a guided tour to learn more about the city and its history. The fortress is open, and you can also enjoy shopping, day trips out of the town, and restaurant visits. During the spring, summer, and early fall seasons, you can relax on the beach if you can find a spot. Or take a Ferris Wheel and enjoy beautiful views over Malaga and the Mediterranean Sea. Did you know you can take a ferry to Africa, too? Or visit the white and blue villages, take a day trip to Madrid with a high-speed train, or visit Gibraltar on a self-driving tour? Here are five must-dos in Malaga, Spain, no matter the season.
1. Malaga Cathedral
According to the history of Malaga, the Cathedral is located within the ancient walls of the Moorish fortress, where the Mosque used to be. Malaga Cathedral was built between the mid-1500s and the mid-1700s, and the Renaissance and Baroque styles influenced the architecture. The Cathedral has only one Bell Tower because of the lack of funds (due to different reasons which are not agreed on) and is called “La Manquita” – a one-armed woman.
The Cathedral is the second-highest building in Andalusia and offers excellent views over Malaga and the sea. We climbed all 200 steps and found it all worth it. There are two stages to climbing, so you will have a little break if you need it. This tour is guided, and your guide will tell you a little about the Cathedral’s history. The entrance fee is only 6 euros, and you can buy tickets at the cathedral entrance. If you only want to visit the Cathedral and the museum, the ticket costs 5 euros. The gardens of the Cathedral are free to enter. You get all the tickets at the entrance of the Cathedral. Whether you go inside or not, walk around the Cathedral, and you will see it in all its pride and glory. There are also many restaurants around the Cathedral where you can have a glass of Cava or Sangria and watch people rushing by.
You can go on a guided walking tour to learn Malaga’s history and see a few places that tourists might not find alone. The tour with Viator includes an entrance to the Cathedral.
2. Segway tour – see Malaga’s highlights
Take a Segway tour for a quick overview of the city. You will learn a little about the town’s history and pass by some of the main attractions you can explore later. Our journey started next to the Cathedral and guided us through Alameda Park up to the top of the Alcazaba. You cannot enter the fortress on the segway tour, but you can always return for it.
3. La Alcazaba – The Moorish Fortress
Alcazaba is a Moorish Fortress located at the foot of Gibralfaro hill. The fortress dates back to Muslim rule in Malaga and is a popular tourist attraction. What makes Alcazaba unique is the chance to observe Roman, Arab, and Renaissance cultures, all within a few yards of each other. Alcazaba combines its defensive purpose with the beauty characteristic of an Arab palace and is organised around rectangular patios and spaces around gardens and pools.
According to the traditional architectural tenets of Granada, the rooms attempt to combine the play of light and shade that the Arab master builders achieved so well. The building’s military components make it one of Spain’s most important Muslim works today. And perhaps its most effective defence was its location, overlooking the city and bay. You can get the tickets to the Fortress near the entrance, just behind the Cathedral. The ticket cost a few euros. Put on some good walking shoes because this place is worthy of exploring.
If you want to learn more about Alcazaba’s history, you can go on a private walking tour, which includes Alcazaba Fortress.
4. Roman Theatre
The Roman Theatre is the oldest monument in Malaga, located at the foot of the La Alcazaba Fortress. The theatre was built in the first century BC under Emperor Augustus and was used until the third century AD. Subsequently, it was left to ruin for centuries until the Moors settled in Andalucía. Now, the site is accompanied by the Centro de Interpretación (visitors centre), which teaches visitors about the history of the ruins and their subsequent excavation. In the summer, it is used for open-air performances. It seats 220 spectators. The Roman Theatre is closed on Mondays and public holidays on January 1st, May 1st, December 24th, December 25th, and December 31st. The Theatre offers free entrance.
5. Castillo de Gibralfaro – Gibralfaro Castle
Gibralfaro Castle was built in 929 AD by Abd-al-Rahman III, Caliph of Cordoba, and enlarged in the 14th century to house troops and protect the Alcazaba. Today, it is one of the most visited monuments in Málaga. The views of the city from the Castle’s walls are spectacular. You can also visit the Interpretation Centre to learn the site’s history. The Castle is divided into two parts.
The upper part is called the central courtyard and houses the Interpretation Centre. You will also find the Main Tower (Torre Mayor), which is 17 meters high, the Phoenician well, and the baths in this section. The Airón well was dug in solid rock to a depth of 40 meters. The lower part, or courtyard, held the troop barracks and stables. The watchtower or White Tower (Torre Blanca), facing the northeast, is one of the most visible ones, and inside, you will find a water tank, auxiliary buildings, and storerooms. Remember to bring water and snacks as there are no coffee shops here.
You can reach the castle through the Alcazaba fortress by climbing the zig-zag steps leading up from the Plaza del General Torrijos at the east end of the Alameda Gardens to join the same cobbled path, or take a taxi. If you prefer to stay the night to take in the stunning views, or you want to have a drink or meal, the Parador Hotel Gibralfaro is conveniently located near the entrance. We stopped here on our Segway tour for the views. Gibralfaro Castle is open to the public daily, with free admission on Sundays after 2 pm. If you buy a combined ticket for the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, you will save 0,6 euros. The price for the Gibralfaro alone is 2,20 euros, while combining for both places, 3,55 euros.
I hope you will explore Granada if you have time for a day trip. Use this guide to Granada and its attractions from Destination the world, which will ease your planning and make your day trip memorable.
6. Museums in Malaga
Malaga has several museums and art galleries, and Spain has fostered several well-known artists such as Picasso, Rando, Gaudí, and Pedro Mena, among others. In addition to the collections of works of these famous artists, several museums exhibit handicrafts. Here I include the top three museums, but there are more than you would expect for any interest.
Museo Picasso Malaga – the Picasso museum
If you are a fan of Picasso or art in general, a Picasso museum is a must. The museum has a collection of Picasso’s work from all the periods, but also an exhibition of Olga Picasso, his first wife, where she shared her story of her experiences during the Russian Revolution and her extraordinary husband. You can watch home movies about Picasso’s childhood, and an audio commentary is available for the visit. You should visit it early to avoid the crowds.
The museum is housed in a beautiful 2-story building, which is almost worth the visit. The entrance is reasonably cheap, so there is no reason not to go. The museum is open daily, with varying opening hours depending on the season. The prices are 6 euros for the Picasso Gallery, 6,5 for the Olga Picasso exhibition, and 12 euros for both. The museum is located behind the Cathedral. You will find more information on the museum’s official site.
Museo de Malaga
Museum with a focus on Malaga and Andalucia, and it gives free entrance to EU visitors. The art collection is mainly from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, and the exhibition represents this period. The pre-1900 paintings cover the usual subjects – portraits, religion, genre, Orientalism, and the sea. The 20C collection is divided into the relevant periods – fin de siècle, the avant-garde (Picasso and Villa), the Franco period, and post-1950. The other collection takes up the second floor and is strong on the Roman and Al-Andalus periods. The art collection is on the first floor, and the archaeology collection is on the second floor. There are also free security boxes where you can leave your bags. Museo de Malaga is located near Alcazaba and the Cathedral and is housed in the beautiful old Customs House.
The museum is closed on Mondays and has varying opening hours depending on the season. The admission cost is 1,5 euros. You will find more information on the museum’s official site.
Museo del Vidrio y Cristal – the Museum of Crystal
This museum contains extraordinary collections of crystals from around the world, from Roman times to today. The collections include handmade porcelain, stained glass windows, unique pieces, and various portraits. Visitors will experience a charming and welcoming atmosphere with personal attention. The visits are guided by the staff, who speak different languages and are very friendly and knowledgeable. The architecture of the Museo del Vidrio y Cristal is breathtaking, with original tiles and beam ceilings. The museum is closed on Mondays, public holidays, and the whole month of August. The admission price is 6 Euros, and visits can be arranged in Spanish, English, French, and Italian. You can send them an email before your visit to ensure they have staff who speak your language (one of the four mentioned).
7. Parque de Malaga – Malaga Park
Parque de Malaga is a lush green oasis located just off the Cathedral towards the beach and sea, and along the promenade. The park has three walkways, each 800 m long and 10 m wide, located on the north and south sides. It covers an area of 30,000 square meters if you count the rose garden surrounded by orange and cypress trees.
These gardens are located next to the City Council building and are called Jardines de Puerta Oscura. Take a stroll, a jog, or a seat on the bench and let it all sink in. Seeing beautiful ornate pieces of Baroque and Renaissance sculptures and fountains surrounded by subtropical plants gives you a surreal feeling.
8. The Beach – Malagueta
Malagueta Beach is located in the city’s centre and gets its name from the neighbourhood La Malagueta. The beach is popular with both locals and tourists. You will find all necessary amenities such as showers, toilets, waste bins, lifeguards, playgrounds for kids, sunbeds and umbrellas rentals, snack bars, sports and water activities and equipment. Malagueta Beach is a blue flag beach, an eco-label award, meaning the beach has pure water, clean coasts, safety, and access for all.
If you are here during the summer, you MUST spend a day in Malagueta and experience how locals spend their summer days. Remember that you will need a sunshade on the beach during summer. It doesn’t matter what beach you are on. Just remember sunscreen and sun umbrellas. Another beautiful beach destination in Spain is Formentera Island, just off the coast of Ibiza.
9. Puerto de Malaga – Malaga Port
The newly renovated port of Malaga is one of Malaga’s best attractions year-round. It is also one of the free things you can do in Malaga. Start at Muello Uno – the waterfront promenade. The promenade is very modern and elegantly designed. Many recently planted palm trees line the walkway, and thousands of trees and tropical plants make up the gardens. There is no better place to enjoy an evening stroll and do people-watching.
At the end of Muello Uno, you will find the Pompidou Centre, “El Cubo.” You can get skip-the-line tickets to the Pompidou Centre from Viator. Next to the Cube or just in front and beneath it, you will find a quirky restaurant and bar, Artsenal, with contemporary art everywhere. It is worth stopping for at least a drink and gazing at the works of different artists. There are also performances here occasionally, so you may be lucky and walk into a jazz jam.
10. Mercado Atarazanas – Food court in Malaga
One of the free things to do in Malaga is to visit Mercado Atarazanas, the city’s most famous food market. It is located in Calle Atarazanas, 10, just off one of the busy thoroughfares leading from the Guadalmedina River to the old town. This market is where the people of Malaga come to buy fresh food. The visitors come for the tapas and fresh “pescaíto” (typical small fried fish) in the bars in the market or to stroll through this building, which has been able to preserve its traditional essence. The building where the market originated in the 14th century has luckily preserved its architectural heritage from the Arabic and Moorish rule. Mercado Atarazanas is open Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 3 pm.
Where to stay in Malaga
We rented a one-bedroom apartment in Old Town Malaga. The bedroom with a king-size bed and a French balcony was spacious. The living room had a dining table for 4, a kitchenette, a foldout couch, a flatscreen, a recliner, and a little terrace. The street would be nice and quiet if it weren’t for the Semana Santa processions, which were cool. We were met by the staff, who explained everything we needed to know. The apartment was located on the top floor. The building had an elevator. On the floor above us was a roof terrace with several sunbeds, high tables and chairs, and umbrellas. Overall, it is good value for money. We rented with Living4Malaga, and you can check availability and prices on bookings.com.
There are many things you can do in Malaga. Some are season-based, such as Feria de Augusto, the celebration of the return to Christian rule in the 14th century, which takes place every year on the third week of August. Semana Santa is the Holy Week celebration with processions, which takes place every year on Palm Sunday and lasts until Easter Sunday.
