THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN COSTA DEL SOL
Welcome to Costa del Sol, a stunning region in southern Spain where golden beaches, vibrant coastal cities, and charming whitewashed villages come together to create an unforgettable destination. From the cultural treasures of Málaga to the hidden gems of Frigiliana and Setenil de las Bodegas, this region is packed with incredible places to explore.
This guide covers the top destinations, from popular resort towns to lesser-known villages, along with practical tips on how to get around. Plan your trip with ease and make the most of everything Costa del Sol has to offer.
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WHEN TO GO
The best time to visit Costa del Sol is between May and September, when the region enjoys plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 32°C (90°F). Spring and early autumn are great for exploring the whitewashed villages and coastal trails with fewer crowds, while summer is perfect for relaxing on the Mediterranean beaches and enjoying the lively atmosphere in resort towns like Marbella and Torremolinos.
TOP PLACES TO EXPLORE & OUR TOP PICKS
Costa del Sol is a region of incredible diversity, where golden beaches meet charming towns, and history blends with natural beauty. From vibrant coastal retreats to cultural treasures and hidden gems, Costa del Sol offers an unforgettable experience.
CITIES & LARGER TOWNS
Costa del Sol is home to several bustling cities and larger coastal towns, each offering a mix of history, culture, nightlife, and relaxation. Some destinations are ideal for exploring ancient fortresses, others for strolling through lively marinas or enjoying a day at the beach.
Click on each city or town to explore more about what to see, where to stay, and the best experiences in each destination!
Malaga: The cultural and economic hub of Costa del Sol, Malaga is a city rich in history and modern attractions. Home to the Picasso Museum, the stunning Alcazaba fortress, and a vibrant culinary scene, it blends tradition with a lively urban atmosphere.
Marbella: A blend of luxury and authenticity, Marbella offers pristine beaches, a charming Old Town filled with Andalusian charm, and the glamorous Puerto Banús marina lined with luxury yachts and designer boutiques.
Estepona: Often overlooked, Estepona maintains a traditional Andalusian feel with its flower-filled streets, golden beaches, and an impressive Orchidarium showcasing exotic plants from around the world.
Nerja: A picturesque coastal town with stunning beaches, Nerja is famous for the breathtaking Balcón de Europa viewpoint and the ancient Nerja Caves, which contain prehistoric cave paintings.
Torremolinos: Known for its lively beaches and energetic nightlife, Torremolinos is a popular resort town that also offers cultural experiences, such as the historic Torre de Pimentel and the beautiful Molino de Inca botanical garden.
Benalmádena: A diverse destination with a picturesque marina, cable car rides offering panoramic views, the serene Buddhist Stupa, and cultural attractions like Castillo de Colomares, a stunning monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus.
Fuengirola: A coastal town famous for its long promenade lined with beachside restaurants, lively squares, and the historic Sohail Castle, offering stunning views of the coastline.
OUR TOP PICKS - Cities & Larger Towns
With so many incredible destinations, it's hard to choose favorites - but some places have truly left a lasting impression on us:
Malaga: One of our top picks for culture lovers, Malaga blends history, art, and gastronomy in a way that few cities do.
Nerja: A personal favorite for its stunning coastal views, the Balcón de Europa is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Costa del Sol.
Estepona: If you love charming, authentic Andalusian towns, this one is a must! Estepona feels like a hidden treasure with its flower-filled streets and laid-back vibe.
Benalmádena: Perfect for a mix of relaxation and adventure, Benalmádena offers a beautiful marina, scenic cable car rides, and a vibrant atmosphere.
CHARMING VILLAGES & HIDDEN GEMS
Beyond the bustling coastal cities, Costa del Sol is dotted with enchanting villages and hidden gems that provide a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life. These destinations, often perched in the mountains or tucked away in natural landscapes, offer cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, breathtaking views, and a slower pace of life.
Mijas Pueblo: A quintessential Andalusian village perched in the mountains, Mijas Pueblo boasts cobblestone streets, panoramic coastal views, and traditional donkey taxis that give a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
Frigiliana: One of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Frigiliana is characterized by its narrow whitewashed alleys adorned with vibrant flowers and its deep Moorish heritage.
Casares: A postcard-perfect village with houses that seem to cling to the mountainside, Casares offers a peaceful escape with a historic castle and breathtaking countryside views.
Ronda: Famous for its dramatic cliffside setting and the Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge, Ronda is one of Andalusia’s most historic towns, featuring Spain’s oldest bullring and stunning natural scenery.
Setenil de las Bodegas: A one-of-a-kind village where homes are built directly into massive rock formations, Setenil de las Bodegas is an architectural marvel with charming cave-style restaurants and bars.
Ojén: Nestled in the Sierra Blanca mountains, Ojén is a peaceful retreat surrounded by olive groves and hiking trails, offering a perfect mix of nature and traditional Spanish culture.
Manilva: A lesser-known coastal town with a laid-back vibe, Manilva is renowned for its vineyards, unspoiled beaches, and charming fishing village atmosphere.
OUR TOP PICKS - Charming Villages & Hidden Gems
With so many charming villages and hidden gems across Costa del Sol, a few have left an unforgettable impression on us:
Frigiliana: There’s something magical about Frigiliana. Between its maze of whitewashed alleys, bursts of colorful flowers, and deep-rooted Moorish history, it’s the kind of place you just want to get lost in.
Ronda: No matter how many times we visit, Ronda never ceases to amaze. The dramatic cliffs, breathtaking Puente Nuevo bridge, and rich history make it one of Andalusia’s most unforgettable destinations.
Setenil de las Bodegas: A village built under massive rock formations? Yes, it’s as incredible as it sounds. Walking through Setenil feels like stepping into another world, where nature and architecture blend in the most unexpected way.
HOW TO GET AROUND COSTA DEL SOL
Navigating Costa del Sol is easy, thanks to its well-developed transportation network. You can choose the convenience of trains, the flexibility of driving, or the ease of guided tours, with plenty of options to help you explore the region.
BY TRAIN
Spain’s Renfe railway network connects Malaga to major cities across the country, making it a great option for longer-distance travel. The María Zambrano Train Station in Malaga serves as the region’s main hub.
High-Speed AVE Trains: Ideal for reaching destinations beyond Costa del Sol quickly.
Madrid – Just 2.5 hours via AVE.
Seville – Around 2 hours.
Córdoba – A 1-hour ride to visit the famous Mezquita.
Cercanías Commuter Trains (C1 Line): Perfect for traveling between coastal towns.
Malaga to Fuengirola – Stops at Torremolinos and Benalmádena, making it a hassle-free way to visit multiple beach destinations.
Trains run frequently (every 20–30 minutes) and offer an affordable alternative to driving.
BY CAR
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Costa del Sol, especially for reaching smaller villages and scenic countryside routes.
Why Rent a Car?
Access hidden gems like Ronda, Frigiliana, and Casares that aren't easily reached by public transport.
Enjoy flexibility in exploring the region at your own pace.
Take in scenic coastal drives along the N-340 highway, which offers breathtaking Mediterranean views.
Driving Tips:
Parking: In cities like Malaga and Marbella, opt for underground parking garages to avoid congestion.
Tolls: Some highways (AP-7) have tolls, but scenic coastal roads like A-7/N-340 are free alternatives.
BY BUS
Buses are an affordable and reliable option for getting around Costa del Sol, especially between towns not connected by train.
BY GUIDED TOURS
For a stress-free experience, guided tours are a great way to explore Costa del Sol’s top attractions without worrying about transportation.
Best Guided Tours:
Ronda & Setenil de las Bodegas Tour – Ideal for exploring the dramatic landscapes and rock-carved homes.
Caminito del Rey Excursion – Includes transport, allowing you to focus on the scenic cliffside hike.
Gibraltar Day Trip – A convenient way to visit the famous Rock of Gibraltar and see the Barbary macaques.