Things To Do
in Málaga

Skewered sardines grilled over open flames at beach chiringuitos — best at Pedregalejo or La Malagueta.

Must-Try!

A thicker cold tomato soup similar to salmorejo, often garnished with hard-boiled egg and ham; find it in traditional Andalusian restaurants.

A chilled almond-and-garlic soup typically served with grapes or melon — refreshing on hot days and common in local menus.

A mixed fried seafood platter (calamari, anchovies, small shrimp) served at many tapas bars and seafront eateries.

Historic central market offering fresh seafood, produce and quick bites; try olives, jamón, and a seafood tapa at the market stalls.

Beachfront grills where locals eat espetos and fried fish; ideal for an informal seaside meal at any time of day.

A firm handshake is common in formal situations; among friends and acquaintances two kisses on the cheeks (starting with the right) is typical in Andalusia. Use polite forms (usted) with older people or in formal contexts until invited to use tú.

Meals are later than in northern Europe — lunch around 14:00 and dinner often after 21:00. Socializing over tapas and long meals is normal; be patient and enjoy the relaxed pace.

Holy Week and local festivals are taken seriously; show respect during processions and observe local rules around photographing religious events if asked.

Andalusians are expressive and sociable, but public drunkenness and disorderly behavior are frowned upon. Keep public spaces tidy and avoid littering, especially on beaches.

Tipping is modest; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated but not obligatory. For taxis and small purchases, round up to the nearest euro; in high-end restaurants or for exceptional service, leave 10%.

Cards (chip-and-PIN and contactless) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, but cash is useful for markets, small tapas bars and chiringuitos. ATMs are common; inform your bank about travel to avoid card blocks.

Mild temperatures (15–23°C/59–73°F), blooming gardens and fewer crowds than summer — ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Festival season begins with Holy Week processions that can be busy but culturally rich.

Hot, dry and sunny (25–35°C/77–95°F) with lively beaches and nightlife; expect higher prices and crowded beaches in July–August. Stay hydrated, use sun protection and plan midday downtime indoors or beachside.

Warm early autumn with cooling temperatures in November; pleasant for hiking and coastal strolls, with fewer tourists and occasional autumn storms. Harvest season means fresh local produce and wine events.

Mild winters (8–18°C/46–64°F) with rare frosts; good for city breaks and outdoor walks without summer crowds. Some seasonal attractions close in low season but cultural life remains active.

Main international airport 8 km (5 miles) from the city center with frequent bus, train and taxi connections; many domestic and international flights year-round.

About 1.5–2 hours by car; useful for visits to Sierra Nevada and eastern Andalusia with regional flight options.

Around 2–2.5 hours by car; an alternative for western Andalusia and sometimes cheaper seasonal flights.

Approximately 1.5–2 hours drive depending on traffic; smaller airport with limited routes and the novelty of crossing an international border if continuing by land.

Long-established Spanish families with deep cultural ties to Málaga and Andalusian traditions, including festivals and local cuisine.

University of Málaga students and young professionals add a vibrant daytime and nightlife energy to the city, especially in central neighborhoods.

A sizable expatriate community from Northern Europe and other countries who live year-round or seasonally for the climate and lifestyle.

A steady mix of domestic Spanish visitors and international tourists, peaking in summer and holidays, drawn by culture, beaches and events.

Football is the most popular sport; Málaga CF is the local club with passionate local support and matches drawing crowds to La Rosaleda stadium.

Paddle tennis is widely played across Andalusia; tennis clubs and public courts are common, and Málaga hosts recreational competitions.

With its coastal location, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular among locals and tourists.

The Costa del Sol is nicknamed the 'Costa del Golf' with numerous golf courses within easy driving distance of Málaga.

Vegetarian options are widely available: tapas like pimientos de padrón, tortilla española, ensaladas and gazpacho. Ask for vegetarian versions (sin carne, sin pescado) and check for lard in traditional tortillas.

Vegan choices have grown in Málaga—many modern restaurants and cafes provide plant-based dishes, but in traditional spots explicitly request no cheese or egg and confirm cooking oil used.

Gluten-free options are increasingly available; speak to staff (sin gluten) and visit specialty bakeries or larger restaurants that note allergens. Cross-contamination can occur in tapas bars.

Halal options are available in international and some local establishments; kosher options are limited—plan ahead and look for specialist shops or supermarkets in the city.