COSTA DEL SOL: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Costa del Sol, affectionately known as the "Sun Coast," is a breathtaking stretch of coastline in southern Spain that promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With its golden sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and a wealth of cultural experiences, Costa del Sol is an unforgettable destination. To ensure you make the most of your visit, we've prepared the ultimate guide to help you explore the best attractions this region has to offer. Let's discover together why this amazing destination is a must-visit!
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HIGHLIGHTS
Before diving into the details of our carefully planned itineraries, here's a quick overview of what to expect and a summary to help with your planning:
Day 1: Coastal Delights
Málaga, Alcazaba of Málaga, Málaga Cathedral, La Malagueta Beach, Promenade of La Farola
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
Marbella Old Town, Orange Square, Picasso Museum Málaga, Marbella Promenade, Puerto Banus
Day 3: Nature and Adventure
Playa de La Caleta, Caminito del Rey, Muelle Uno
Day 4: Nerja and Frigiliana
Nerja, Balcon de Europa, Nerja Caves, Frigiliana
Day 5: Day Trip to Gibraltar
Gibraltar, Gibraltar Rock, Europa Point, Main Street Shopping
Watersports, Cruises and Boat Tours, Golf, Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park Tour, Day Trip to Ronda and Setenil
Granada, Seville, Córdoba
GETTING AROUND COSTA DEL SOL
Getting around Costa del Sol is easy thanks to its well-connected transportation options, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. Public buses are reliable and cover all major areas, while taxis are readily available for convenient short trips. For the ultimate freedom to explore the stunning landscapes and charming towns at your own pace, consider renting a car. Major rental companies are available at Málaga Airport (AGP) and throughout the Costa del Sol.
If you're flying into Costa del Sol, check out Skyscanner for the best flight deals. Málaga Airport (AGP) serves as the main gateway to the region, offering connections to major European cities.
3-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Coastal Delights
Morning: Start your day in Málaga, the lively capital of Costa del Sol. Explore the historic Alcazaba of Málaga, a Moorish fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Then, visit Málaga Cathedral, known for its impressive Renaissance architecture and beautifully detailed interiors.
Lunch: Treat yourself to traditional Andalusian cuisine at El Pimpi, one of the most renowned restaurants in Málaga. Located in a historic building, El Pimpi offers a delightful atmosphere and dishes like gazpacho (a cold soup), pescaíto frito (fried fish), and other regional specialties.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon relaxing on La Malagueta Beach, one of Málaga's most popular urban beaches. Take a walk along the Promenade of La Farola, and enjoy the views of the coastline and the busy harbor.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant. Try some fresh seafood and local dishes while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
Morning: Take a walk through the charming streets of Marbella Old Town, known for its whitewashed buildings, balconies full of flowers, and interesting historic landmarks. Don't miss Orange Square, a picturesque plaza surrounded by cafes, shops, and art galleries.
Lunch: Head to El Boquerón, a hidden gem in Marbella Old Town. This restaurant is well-known for its inviting ambiance and delicious traditional Spanish dishes, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Afternoon: Head to the Picasso Museum Málaga, home to a diverse collection of works by the renowned Spanish artist.
Evening: Walk along the Marbella Promenade, lined with palm trees, boutiques, and upscale restaurants. Then, visit Puerto Banus, a glamorous marina known for its luxury yachts, designer boutiques, and lively nightlife.
Day 3: Nature and Adventure
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Playa de La Caleta, a charming beach located just east of Málaga's city center. Enjoy the golden sands and the clear Mediterranean waters.
Lunch: Have a picnic lunch on the beach or enjoy a meal at one of the chiringuitos, where you can taste fresh seafood and other local delights.
Afternoon: Head out to Caminito del Rey, one of the most famous hiking trails in Spain. Known for its narrow paths, sheer cliffs, and breathtaking views, this trail offers an unforgettable adventure.
Evening: Take a walk through Muelle Uno, Málaga's modern waterfront shopping and dining complex. Explore various shops, enjoy a casual meal at one of the many cafes or restaurants, and soak in the vibrant nightlife. The area often hosts live music and events, providing a lively and enjoyable end to your day.
4-DAY ITINERARY
Day 4: Nerja and Frigiliana
Morning: Head to Nerja, a pretty coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, charming streets, and cultural attractions. Don't forget to visit Balcon de Europa, a nice spot with great views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Lunch: Eat at a beachside restaurant in Nerja. Enjoy some fresh seafood and traditional Andalusian dishes.
Afternoon: Explore Nerja Caves, a series of natural caverns with impressive rock formations. Then, take a walk around Frigiliana, a cute village with old buildings and lovely shops.
Evening: Head back to your accommodation and unwind at the spa or rooftop pool, treating yourself to some pampering and nice views of the coastline.
5-DAY ITINERARY
Day 5: Day Trip to Gibraltar
Morning: Plan a day trip to Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory known for its iconic rock formation, historic sites, and duty-free shopping. Take a cable car ride to the top of Gibraltar Rock, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Strait of Gibraltar and the African coastline.
Lunch: Eat at one of the restaurants in Gibraltar. Try some British pub food, fish and chips, and international cuisine.
Afternoon: Visit Europa Point, the southernmost tip of Gibraltar, where you can see the famous Trinity Lighthouse and views of Morocco across the strait. Then, spend some time exploring Main Street, Gibraltar's busy shopping area, known for its duty-free shops, boutiques, and souvenir stalls.
Evening: Head back to your hotel and relax, or unwind at a waterfront cafe, enjoying the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.
WHERE TO STAY
Costa del Sol offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget, from mid-range options to luxurious retreats. Here are some of our recommendations:
Mid-Range:
Hotel Brö - Adults Recommended: Discover tranquility and modern comfort at this centrally located hotel in Málaga. Enjoy stylish, contemporary rooms, a relaxing atmosphere, and convenient access to the city's attractions and beaches.
Soho Boutique Urban: Experience the vibrant culture of Málaga at this boutique hotel. Stay in modern, comfortable rooms with chic decor, and enjoy the hotel's close proximity to the city's main attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Hotel Claude Marbella: Experience charm and comfort at this boutique hotel in the heart of Marbella. Enjoy well-furnished rooms, friendly service, and the cozy atmosphere of this restored 17th-century building.
Luxury:
Gran Hotel Miramar GL: Experience grandeur and elegance at this five-star hotel in Málaga. Enjoy luxurious rooms with sea or garden views, dine at gourmet restaurants, and relax at the hotel's lavish spa.
Only YOU Hotel Málaga: Enjoy a modern and stylish stay at this centrally located hotel in Málaga. Stay in chic rooms with contemporary decor, take a dip in the rooftop pool with stunning city views, and enjoy easy access to Málaga’s cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
Marbella Club Hotel: Experience luxury and sophistication at this iconic beachfront resort in Marbella. Enjoy elegant rooms, gourmet dining, and world-class amenities including a spa, golf course, and private beach club.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE
If you've got a bit more time on your hands, consider adding these fun activities to your Costa del Sol trip:
Watersports: Jump into the clear water and enjoy exciting activities like jet skiing, kayaking, or parasailing along the beautiful coastline. Book here →
Cruises and Boat Tours: Enjoy relaxing cruises and boat tours, including trips with optional swimming stops and panoramic sightseeing opportunities along the picturesque shoreline. Book here →
Golf: Experience world-class golfing at Costa del Sol's renowned courses, known as the "Costa del Golf". Enjoy challenging layouts, stunning views, and well-maintained greens, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park Tour: Explore the natural beauty of Sierra de las Nieves. Discover diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and enjoy activities such as hiking and canyoning through this serene natural park. Explore here →
Day Trip to Ronda and Setenil: Explore the historic towns of Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas. Visit Ronda's famous New Bridge, the Bullring, and the picturesque cliffside homes in Setenil. Book here →
BEYOND COSTA DEL SOL
While you've got plenty to keep you busy in Costa del Sol, there are also some beautiful places nearby worth a visit:
Granada: Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Granada, home to the magnificent Alhambra palace complex, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant flamenco scene. Check out our ultimate Granada itinerary →
Seville: Experience the charm and allure of Seville, the capital of Andalusia, known for its Moorish architecture, colorful festivals, and lively tapas bars. Check out our ultimate Seville itinerary →
Córdoba: Explore the historic city of Córdoba, famous for its UNESCO-listed Mezquita, Roman ruins, and picturesque old town.