10x must-do in Malaga
Whether you want to indulge in tapas, sunbathe on the beach, or dive into history, it’s all possible in Malaga. In this article, we share the top 10 things to do and experience in this vibrant city on the Costa del Sol.
#1 Do: Food tour through Malaga
Number 1 tip for when you go to Malaga: book a food tour with Spain Food Sherpa. It’s absolutely the best way to discover the city. Book it right upon arrival because it will give you a head start on where to go and what to order for the rest of your days. Read more about our food tour through Malaga.
#2 Alcazaba
Alcazaba is the ultimate attraction in Malaga and should not be missed. This historic Moorish fortress, located on Mount Gibralfaro, was built around 1055 and is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece with unique Roman ruins. It combines Moorish and Roman influences, taking you on a journey through history.
Step inside the centuries-old walls of Alcazaba and be enchanted by the stunning architecture and lush inner gardens. As you wander through the labyrinthine corridors and courtyards, you can easily imagine what life must have been like here in the past. Don’t forget to pause from time to time and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
Opening hours:
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Ticket prices:
- Adults: €3.50
- Reduced rate (seniors, students, children): €1.50
- Free admission on Sunday afternoons
#3 Enjoy a bike ride
There’s nothing quite like exploring a city and its surroundings on a bike. At Urban Bikes (or at one of the many other places where you can rent bikes), we rented bikes for a whole day, but half a day would have been sufficient. With a bike, you can cycle along the boulevard, passing by charming villages.
#4 Visit the market halls of Malaga
If you want to know what people eat in Malaga, you have to visit the market. Whether you’re just strolling through, enjoying some fresh fish, or having a drink, Mercado Atarazanas is a delightful place to visit. The market consists of three halls: fruits and vegetables, meat, and fish. The market hall in Malaga was built around 1876 during the Moorish era. The beautiful entrance has been preserved, and the building itself is stunning with its steel structures and intricate details. Not too long ago, a large stained glass window was installed, which fits perfectly with the rest of the building.
#5 Relax on La Malagueta Beach
Holy guacamole, La Malagueta Beach is an absolute must-visit when you’re in Malaga! This beach has everything you’re looking for: sun, sea, and a relaxing atmosphere. Picture this: you’re lying on the warm sand, feeling the gentle sea breeze on your skin, and hearing the joyful laughter of people around you. Ah, life can be so beautiful!
The best part? La Malagueta is just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city center. You can literally walk from the historic center to the
beach. No hassle with long travel times or confusing navigation. Just put on your flip-flops, grab your towel, and you’ll be there within minutes!
#6 Walk to Gibralfaro Castle
Looking for an adventure that will leave you breathless? Take a walk to Gibralfaro Castle! This iconic fortress in Malaga offers fantastic views of the city and the sea. It’s like stepping into a postcard!
Prepare for a climb to the hilltop, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas. From the castle, you can enjoy impressive views of the city, the port, and the surrounding landscapes. It’s an absolute must-visit for history and nature lovers.
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Ticket prices:
- Adults: €4.50
- Reduced rate (seniors, students, children): €3.50
So put on your comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable walk to Gibralfaro Castle. Breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the beautiful view, and experience the magic of this historic gem high above the city. Don’t miss it!
#7 Roman Theatre of Malaga
The Roman Theatre of Malaga, oh la la! This historic gem takes you back in time to ancient Rome. The theater was built in the 1st century for performances and served as the cultural heart of the city for centuries.
Today, the Roman Theatre of Malaga is a popular attraction that you shouldn’t miss during your visit to the city. Walk through the ruins, admire the impressive details, and let your imagination run wild as you picture what the theater looked like in its glory days.
Opening hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Ticket prices:
- Adults: €3.50
- Reduced rate (seniors, students, children): €2.50
So, adventurers and history enthusiasts, visit the Roman Theatre of Malaga and be enchanted by the magic of ancient Rome.
For more information about the Roman Theatre, including special events and exhibitions, please visit the official website of the Roman Theatre of Malaga.
#8 Botanical Gardens
Welcome to the enchanting world of the botanical gardens in Malaga! This green oasis is a true treasure for nature lovers and a refreshing escape from the bustling city. Across vast grounds, you’ll find an abundance of exotic plants, flowers, and trees that will stimulate your senses and warm your heart.
Take a leisurely stroll along winding paths and be surprised by the diversity of flora. From colorful orchids to majestic palm trees, every corner of the botanical gardens offers a new discovery. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as you’re sure to capture beautiful photos.
Opening hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Ticket prices:
- Adults: €5.00
- Reduced rate (seniors, students, children): €3.00
For more information about the botanical gardens, including special exhibitions and events, please visit the official website of the Botanical Gardens of Malaga.
#9 Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum in Malaga is an iconic museum that every art lover must visit. Located near the house where Picasso was born, this museum opened its doors in 2003 and has since been a cultural gem in the city. The museum houses an extensive collection of about 200 works by Picasso, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
Step into the fascinating world of Picasso and admire his ingenious creations. From his early masterpieces to his groundbreaking Cubist period, the museum offers profound insights into the artistic evolution of this influential artist. Let yourself be enchanted by his expressive brushstrokes and bold experiments.
Opening hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Ticket prices:
- Adults: €12.00
- Reduced rate (seniors, students, children): €9.00
- Free admission on Sunday from 6:00 PM
On Sundays, you can visit the museum for free from 6:00 PM onwards, which is a great opportunity to experience this artistic treasure at no cost. Get ready for an engaging journey through Picasso’s artistic mind and be inspired by his revolutionary contribution to the art world.
For more information about the Picasso Museum, including exhibitions and special events, please visit the official website of the Picasso Museum in Malaga.
#10 Caminito del Rey
Get ready for a breathtaking adventure on the Caminito del Rey, one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world! This narrow path winds through the impressive El Chorro gorge, with steep cliffs and a shimmering river below.
The Caminito del Rey offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous nature lovers. As you walk along the wooden walkways, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the surrounding natural beauty. It’s a hike that will make your heart race and awaken your senses.
Please note that the Caminito del Rey is a popular attraction, and it’s necessary to reserve tickets in advance. The hike takes about 3 to 4 hours and requires a moderate level of fitness.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
For more information about the Caminito del Rey, including opening hours and ticket prices, please visit the official website of the Caminito del Rey.
Photos from unsplash
More Fun Tips
– Visit the trendy neighborhood of Soho
– Shop till you drop on Calle Larios street
– Explore the old fishing villages: El Palo and Pedregalejo
– Centro de Arte Contemporáneo: This museum of contemporary art showcases innovative and progressive works by international and national artists.
– Carmen Thyssen Museum: A wonderful museum for lovers of 19th-century Spanish painting. It houses an extensive collection of works by prominent Andalusian artists.
– Calle Larios: This is the main commercial street of the city and a perfect place for shopping. It’s a beautiful, wide street with many shops from well-known brands.
