MALAGA: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Located on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain, Malaga is a dynamic mix of history, culture, and seaside allure. Moorish fortresses rise above the city, world-class museums celebrate its artistic soul, and lively tapas bars buzz with energy - all just steps from sun-drenched beaches.
This guide has everything you need to make the most of your time in Malaga - detailed itineraries, must-see attractions, easy day trips, and the best places to stay.
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to products and services we recommend. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps us continue to create helpful travel guides. Thank you for your support.*
MALAGA HIGHLIGHTS
Don’t miss these must-visit spots in Malaga:
Alcazaba of Malaga – A stunning Moorish fortress with sweeping views over the city.
Gibralfaro Castle – A hilltop fortress offering some of the best panoramic views of Malaga.
Picasso Museum – A must-visit museum celebrating the life and work of Malaga’s most famous artist.
Calle Larios – The city’s main shopping street, always buzzing with life.
Malaga Cathedral – Known as "La Manquita" (the one-armed lady), this cathedral is an architectural masterpiece.
Muelle Uno & La Malagueta Beach – A lively waterfront area with restaurants, shops, and a sandy beach perfect for relaxing.
Pompidou Centre – A modern art museum housed in a colorful glass cube.
GETTING TO AND AROUND MALAGA
Malaga is easy to explore, with a walkable center and great transport options:
Walking – The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, perfect for discovering landmarks, plazas, and hidden corners.
Buses – Affordable and reliable, Malaga’s buses cover the city and surrounding areas well. The EMT city buses are great for getting around, while intercity buses connect Malaga to nearby towns like Nerja, Marbella, and Ronda.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing – Regular taxis are easy to find and metered. Ride-sharing apps like Cabify also operate in Malaga, offering a convenient alternative.
Trains – The Cercanías trains (C1 and C2) connect Malaga with the airport, Torremolinos, Benalmádena, and Fuengirola. For longer trips, high-speed AVE trains run to cities like Seville, Madrid, and Barcelona.
Car rental – Not necessary for exploring Malaga itself, but useful if you plan to visit nearby places like Ronda, El Torcal, or Caminito del Rey.
Airport Transfers – Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is just 12 minutes from the city by train. Taxis and airport buses are also available, making transfers quick and easy.
MALAGA ITINERARY
Spending a day or two in Malaga? This itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of the city.
DAY 1
Morning: Walk through Malaga’s historic center, starting at Plaza de la Constitución. Follow Calle Larios, then head to the grand Málaga Cathedral.
Afterwards, visit the Picasso Museum, home to an impressive collection of works from one of Spain’s most iconic artists.
Lunch: Grab a seat at El Pimpi, a Malaga institution known for its Andalusian charm and traditional dishes.
Afternoon: Start at the Roman Theatre, a well-preserved remnant of Malaga’s Roman past that you can explore for free. Then, head next door to the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress with scenic courtyards and sweeping views.
Up for a challenge? Hike to Gibralfaro Castle - a 20–30 minute uphill walk from the Alcazaba - for even more breathtaking vistas.
Evening: Stroll along Muelle Uno, a lively waterfront area filled with restaurants and shops. Then, enjoy fresh seafood at Restaurante La Pérgola del Mediterráneo, with stunning views of the sea.
DAY 2
Morning: Visit the Centre Pompidou, known for its colorful glass cube and contemporary art. Relax at La Malagueta Beach, Malaga’s main urban beach, just minutes from the city center.
Lunch: Grab a table at a chiringuito and enjoy espetos - grilled sardines cooked over an open fire. With the salty air, sizzling fish, and ocean views, it doesn’t get more Malaga than this.
Afternoon: Set out on a catamaran tour, enjoying panoramic views of Malaga’s coastline from the water.
Back on land, unwind with a hammam session, where warm baths and steam rooms melt away any tension.
Evening: Watch a flamenco show - where soulful guitar, rhythmic claps, and fiery footwork create an unforgettable display of passion and tradition.
DAY TRIPS FROM MALAGA
Got extra time in Malaga? These great day trips let you explore more of Andalusia’s stunning towns and landscapes - without worrying about logistics or transportation.
Caminito del Rey – Walk along this breathtaking cliffside path, suspended above deep gorges and scenic valleys.
Ronda & Setenil de las Bodegas – Discover Ronda’s dramatic cliffs and Setenil’s unique cave houses built into the rock.
Nerja & Frigiliana – Visit the spectacular Cueva de Nerja, home to prehistoric cave art, and explore the whitewashed beauty of Frigiliana.
Gibraltar – Cross into British territory to see the famous Rock of Gibraltar and its monkeys.
Granada – Explore the stunning Alhambra Palace, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture, and wander through Granada’s historic streets.
Córdoba – Step into Córdoba’s rich history with a visit to the incredible Mezquita - a mesmerizing blend of Islamic and Christian design - and its charming old town.
WHERE TO STAY IN MALAGA
Malaga has plenty of great places to stay. Here are a few that stand out:
Budget:
Boutique Teatro Romano – A stylish boutique hotel with an unbeatable location near the Roman Theatre and the Alcazaba.
Hotel Sur Málaga – A great budget-friendly option in a convenient location.
Alux Boutique Hotel Málaga – A trendy boutique stay with a focus on comfort and design.
Mid-Range:
Hotel La Chancla – A beachfront hotel offering a relaxed and charming atmosphere.
Madeinterranea Suites – A cozy and charming boutique stay with personalized service.
Luxury:
Gran Hotel Miramar – A luxurious beachfront hotel with stunning views and top-tier service.
Only YOU Málaga – A chic, modern hotel with excellent amenities and a prime city center location.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What is Malaga, Spain famous for?
Malaga is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal setting. As the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, it has a strong artistic heritage, with the Picasso Museum being a must-visit. The city is also home to impressive Moorish landmarks like the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle, offering spectacular views over the coastline. Beyond its history, Malaga embraces a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, with golden beaches, lively tapas bars, and a rejuvenated port area that blends modern attractions with the city’s historic charm.
Is Malaga worth visiting?
Absolutely. Malaga offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and seaside relaxation. Wander through centuries-old fortresses, explore world-class museums, or savor fresh seafood by the waterfront - every corner of the city has something to discover. Plus, Malaga is a fantastic base for exploring nearby gems like Ronda, Nerja, and the Caminito del Rey.
How far is Malaga town from the airport?
Málaga Airport (AGP) is just 8 km (5 miles) from the city center, making it one of Spain’s most accessible airports. The C1 train gets you there in 12 minutes, taxis take around 15 minutes, and the airport bus takes about 20 minutes. No long transfers - just land, drop your bags, and start exploring.
Is Malaga cheap or expensive?
Malaga is one of Spain’s more affordable cities, offering great value for visitors. Eating at traditional tapas bars is budget-friendly, with many places still serving a free tapa with a drink. Attractions like the Roman Theatre and the historic center can be explored at no cost, while paid sites and museums remain reasonably priced. Accommodation varies from budget stays to luxury hotels, making it accessible for different travel styles. Overall, Malaga offers an excellent balance between affordability and quality experiences.
BEYOND MALAGA
Malaga is a fantastic base for exploring Andalusia, with incredible destinations just a short trip away. Here are some nearby gems worth visiting:
Marbella – Just 45 minutes from Malaga, Marbella blends luxury with Andalusian charm. While Puerto Banús is known for its high-end shopping, yachts, and upscale dining, Marbella’s Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is a completely different experience, with whitewashed streets, lively plazas, and traditional tapas bars. The city’s coastline offers stunning beaches, beach clubs, and a lively promenade. Planning a visit? Check out our full Marbella guide for everything you need to know.
Benalmádena – A great mix of coastal fun and cultural sights, Benalmádena is home to the Benalmádena Marina, the beautiful Parque de la Paloma, and unique attractions like the Colomares Castle, a fairytale-like monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus. The Tibetan-style Stupa of Enlightenment, the largest in Europe, offers incredible panoramic views over the coast. We've put together a full guide if you want to explore it more.
Torremolinos – Just 20 minutes from Malaga, Torremolinos is famous for its long sandy beaches, lively seafront promenade, and relaxed atmosphere. It's one of the best places on the Costa del Sol to enjoy chiringuitos (beachfront seafood restaurants), fresh espetos (grilled sardines), and a laid-back coastal vibe.
Antequera – Often called the "Heart of Andalusia", Antequera is filled with history, from baroque churches to the Dolmens of Antequera, a UNESCO-listed prehistoric site older than the pyramids. The town itself is packed with stunning architecture and a laid-back Andalusian charm.
El Torcal de Antequera – Just outside Antequera, El Torcal Natural Park is home to some of the most unique limestone rock formations in Spain. This surreal landscape, shaped by millions of years of erosion, is perfect for hiking and offers breathtaking panoramic views over the region.