Things To Do
in Málaga

Málaga is a vibrant coastal city in the southern region of Spain, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful beaches. It is the birthplace of the famous artist Pablo Picasso and boasts numerous museums and galleries showcasing his work. The city combines traditional Andalusian charm with modern amenities, offering visitors a unique blend of experiences.

With a pleasant Mediterranean climate, Málaga is an ideal destination year-round for tourists seeking art, history, and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Málaga
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Alcazaba, a well-preserved Moorish fortress with stunning views of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to the Málaga Cathedral, known as 'La Manquita' (the one-armed lady) due to its unfinished second tower, and explore the Picasso Museum.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local tapas bar in the historic center, followed by a stroll along the beach promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Centre Pompidou Málaga, a modern art museum, before taking a walk in the beautiful Parque de Málaga.

afternoon
:

Explore the Atarazanas Market for lunch, then visit the nearby beach for some relaxation.

evening
:

End your trip with a flamenco show at a local venue, experiencing the passion of Spanish culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel (3-star) per night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and vibrant art scene
  • Beautiful Mediterranean beaches
  • Mild climate year-round
  • Can be crowded in summer months
  • Pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas
  • Limited public transport options outside the city
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Hola" - Hello

Places to Visit in Málaga

Visit one of these nice places.

Alcazaba

The fortress provides stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for capturing golden hour photographs.

Bailén Street

A picturesque street filled with colorful buildings and street art, ideal for urban photography.

Málaga Cathedral

The unique architecture and surrounding plaza offer great opportunities for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Málaga

Málaga's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of traditional Andalusian flavors and fresh Mediterranean ingredients, making it a food lover's paradise.

Málaga Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Espetos de Sardinas

Sardines skewered and grilled over open flames, a must-try dish especially enjoyed at the beach.

Must-Try!

Pescaito Frito

A selection of small fried fish, served crispy and often accompanied by a wedge of lemon.

Gazpacho

A refreshing cold soup made from blended tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and garlic, perfect for warm weather.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Atarazanas

A bustling market offering fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local delicacies, ideal for sampling authentic Málaga cuisine.

Climate Guide

Weather

Málaga enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by long, hot summers and mild winters. Summers (June to August) see temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F), ideal for beachgoers. Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 8°C (46°F). Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures, ranging between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F), perfect for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone, and it's polite to greet shopkeepers when entering.

Dining Etiquette

Meals are often enjoyed leisurely; it's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Casual yet neat attire is acceptable, though locals tend to dress well, especially in the evenings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Málaga is generally a safe city for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially in markets and tourist attractions. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Málaga

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, though it's good to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Málaga is mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and sunny, summer attracts many tourists, especially to the beaches; be prepared for crowds and high temperatures.

Autumn

Autumn offers comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring the city and enjoying local festivals.

Winter

Winters are mild, and while it's less crowded, you can still enjoy cultural events and indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Málaga at Night

Málaga boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of trendy bars, traditional tapas spots, and nightclubs. The historic center comes alive after sunset, with locals and tourists enjoying late-night dining and drinks. Popular areas include Plaza de la Merced and the beachfront promenade, where lively music and dancing create an energetic atmosphere. Flamenco shows and live music venues add to the cultural richness of the night.

Hiking in Málaga

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

El Caminito del Rey

A famous walkway pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge, offering spectacular views and thrilling hiking experiences.

Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park

A beautiful area with diverse flora and fauna, featuring numerous trails for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Airports

How to reach Málaga by plane.

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)

Located about 8 km from the city center, this international airport offers flights to numerous destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Málaga is highly walkable, especially in the historic center where most attractions are within walking distance. The city features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and there are plenty of plazas and parks to enjoy along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are of Spanish descent, with a rich mix of cultures reflected in the city's traditions and festivals.

Expat Community

Málaga has a growing expat community, particularly among retirees and digital nomads drawn by the city's climate and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Málaga CF, the local football club, has a passionate fan base, and attending a match is a popular activity for locals and tourists alike.

Tennis

Tennis is also popular, with the city hosting various tournaments and events, attracting both professional and amateur players.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Málaga can be busy during peak hours, particularly in the city center. Public transportation includes buses and trains, with a reliable network connecting various parts of the city. Biking and walking are also encouraged, with designated lanes available in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Málaga.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Málaga offers numerous vegetarian-friendly dishes, such as salads, grilled vegetables, and traditional tapas without meat.

Gluten-Free

While traditional Spanish cuisine may include bread, many restaurants offer gluten-free options like seafood dishes and salads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Málaga has a robust healthcare system with multiple public and private hospitals. Emergency services are accessible, and most medical professionals speak English. Pharmacies are readily available, and many carry over-the-counter medications. For tourists, travel insurance is recommended to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide