14 Unforgettable Things To Do in Malaga, Spain

Complete city guide for Malaga with the best things to do, places to eat, hidden treasures, and more!

Malaga lies on the southern end of the Spanish coastline, Costa del Sol. It carries the beautiful imprint of sun-kissed beaches and rich history, and heritage within the underground local culture.

I spent five days in this city, warming myself through its warm, pedestrian-friendly, and historic center; centuries-old architecture; and an amazing emerging food scene. From majestic Moorish fortresses to world-class museums and tapas bars, Málaga has something for everyone.

I will share my own experiences with lesser-known attractions and some must-do day trips, such as the Caminito del Rey, Antequera, and a secret spot to round it out.

Here are 14 things you shouldn’t miss when visiting Málaga, Spain.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of the product links, we’ll receive a small commission at no cost to you. We only promote products and services we 100% believe in. Thank you so much for supporting us! Read more about it in our disclosure policy.

Table of Contents

About Malaga

Malaga is one of the most incredible cities in Spain. With the airport super closeby, it is a convenient and fun location for a short city trip, but also a city not to be missed during a road trip!

Malaga is located in Southern Spain and is considered to be the ”gateway” to Andalusia. Its mild climate, palm-lined promenades, and friendly vibe make it a year-round destination. Malaga is an ideal place for exploring nearby gems like Granada and Ronda, as well. It perfectly combines culture, coast, and charm in one sun-drenched package.

Note: This is a guest post

14 best things to do in Malaga, Spain

Visit Alcazaba and Gibralfaro

High up, Gibralfaro stands above Málaga, a guard watching the city since ancient times, while the Alcazaba, with its tiered ramparts and shadowy arches, has cradled centuries of whispered tales. They were built by Moorish artisans in the eleventh to fourteenth centuries; their sunbaked stones still hold warmth from the Andalusian days and the breath of the Mediterranean.

Strolling through those arches and quiet courtyards, you might almost hear the faint brush of history against your footsteps. The connection to Gibralfaro Castle boasts magnificent sunset views over the city, port, and sea, and the steepness of every step, to be honest, is worth every effort.

To be fair, I bought a very good-value ticket to visit the two sites, but there are guided tours if that’s your thing. If you are a history lover, then this one has to be the one for you.

Do not Miss La Manquita, Málaga Cathedral

You can not miss the cathedral beside the Alcazaba in Málaga. It is a Renaissance-Baroque church built on the site of a previous mosque, with the commencement of construction in the 16th century.

You’ll quickly notice it has only one finished tower, earning its nickname “la Manquita” (the one-armed lady). Despite this quirk, the cathedral’s interior is stunning: I was blown away by the soaring vaulted ceiling, ornate chapels, and two giant pipe organs flanking the nave.

Art lovers will appreciate the sacred paintings and gold-plated altars, while history buffs note that Christians built it right over the old mosque after 1487.

Experience Picasso’s Legacy at Museo Picasso Málaga

The Museo Picasso Málaga is dedicated to the legacy of Picasso in his birthplace. It presently houses more than two hundred pieces of his work, donated by his family, and is located in the Buenavista Palace, a sumptuous 16th-century building. I meandered through the vibrant galleries containing early sketches, Cubist works, and vibrant ceramics at a languorous pace.

Pieces like “Bullfight” and “Portrait” showcase his versatility and love for color. Additionally, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions from other movements. Since the old town is so walkable, it is a convenient cultural stop between lunch and more exploration.

Visit Museo Carmen Thyssen

A few walks away from the Picasso Museum and into a contrasting tier of Málaga’s art scene, the Thyssen Museum is an art show in its own right. With an emphasis on 19th-century Spanish painting with an Andalusian undertone, the museum was inaugurated in 2011. I was bewitched by the works of Murillo, Sorolla, and Sorolla’s local-related painters during these fine hours in 16th-century full palms.

Historic Center Stroll

Wandering in the heart of the city of Málaga is one of my favorite wholesome pursuits. The entire historic district is pedestrianized, almost like a narrow, sonorous maze of boutiques, cafés, and tapas bars.

The arteries of the district are Calle Larios and Plaza de la Constitución, but true magic is in the side alleys! I enjoyed popping into small turrón shops selling almond nougat (an Andalusian specialty) and sipping café con leche at tables outside as I watched the world go by.

Explore the Caves of Nerja

The Caves of Nerja are nearly five kilometers long in underground galleries filled with ancient stalactites and stalagmites. They were discovered in 1959 by a group of local friends and claim to have the largest natural column in the world, along with prehistoric cave paintings that date possibly to 40,000 years ago.

Visitors can wander through the Show Galleries, which are equipped with even walkways and staircases, while concerts continue to echo in the vast “Cathedral” chamber, for which I remained awestruck at the Organ Corner. This underground phenomenon is a union of geology, archaeology, and live performances.

Do not Forget To Eat and Enjoy Local Cuisine at These Places in Malaga

Eating tapas in Málaga was a true culinary journey. I tried it all, from the rustic Casa de Guardia, where I poured vermouth from barrels, to Casa Lola’s tortilla and Los Gatos’ jamón with Rioja for €10. While I do think that El Pimpi is a must for tourists, the buzzing ambience and serrano ham botana won my heart over.

Kaleja’s Michelin star was totally unforgettable to splurge on during its tasting menu. One day, while wandering through the area around the cathedral, I found a hidden market and had the most wonderful experience with porra antequerana and jamón ibérico at small tables.

For a real taste of Málaga, I visited Atarazanas Market. It’s set in a 19th-century building with a Moorish arch and stained-glass window showing the old port. This used to be a shipyard in Moorish times. Inside, stalls overflow with color and scent.

I wandered past piles of olives, manchego, citrus, and bright peppers. Seafood steals the show: shrimp, octopus, and fresh fish on ice. It’s perfect for a picnic or just to enjoy the energy of local life.

Relax on La Malagueta Beach

La Malagueta is Málaga’s main city beach, just a short walk from the old town. I spent relaxed afternoons here under a rented umbrella (€4), swimming in calm blue waters and soaking up the Andalusian sun.

The real highlight? Chiringuitos grilling espeto de sardinas, fresh sardines skewered and cooked over open flames. At Tropicana, they roast them on a boat right in the sand (€8 with fries). For something upscale, El Balneario offers sea views and sangria.

Visit La Concepción Botanical Garden

La Concepción Botanical Garden sits quietly in the hills north of the city. Once a 19th-century estate, it’s now a lush escape filled with subtropical plants.

I found over 2,000 species, palms, bamboo, and flowering groves, all thriving in peaceful paths. Morning light made the greenery feel magical.

Soho Málaga: Street Art and Creative Culture

Back in the city, one of my favorite discoveries was Soho Málaga, the “Arts District” north of the port. Once an industrial area, it’s now a thriving hub of street art and hip cafes.

Everywhere you look, there are giant murals, even famous graffiti artists like Shepard Fairey (Obey). I took a self-guided graffiti tour, snapping photos of vibrant walls and passing modern galleries and theaters.

Flamenco Shows and Nightlife

In Málaga, flamenco is essential. I experienced an authentic performance at Bodega El Pimpi on a Monday. Guitarists and singers spontaneously played cante jondo in a candlelit cellar with no cover charge, just the cost of a drink. This intimate show made me feel I truly tapped into the Andalusian soul.

On weekends, Málaga’s nightlife comes alive: students gather in plazas with wine and tapas; the waterfront offers upscale bars; and budget-friendly spots open late. I often capped off evenings with churros and hot chocolate at 2 AM, a perfect local treat.

Bike Tour in the Evening in Málaga

I spent a charming hour pedaling through the old town of Málaga and the palm-fringed promenade. The guided tour took me past the glowingly lit walls of the Alcazaba, the lively cafés of Plaza de la Merced, and the modern harbor development at Muelle Uno.

itRiding under the faint glow of street lamps, I sensed the city shift from a day energy toward the night. This is a peaceful way to see the landmarks of Málaga in a new light. The ride costs about €30, including bike rental and a guide, and it lasts two hours.

Cooking Workshop for Tapas and Sangria

One afternoon, I went to a small-group class in a restored Andalusian courtyard. Under the chef’s watchful eye, I learned to make patatas bravas, boquerones en vinagre, and a classic sangria. We tasted our creations with some country wines, recounting stories against the pungent backdrop of garlic and fresh herbs. Costing €60-€75, this immersive experience blends hands-on cooking with the warm interaction of other souls. This is clearly, an excellent fit for anyone craving an authentic touch of Málaga.

3 Days Trip to Caminito del Rey, Antequera, Ronda & Setenil de las Bodegas

I recommend one full day for each of these excursions:

Day 1: El Caminito del Rey

The Caminito del Rey is one of Spain’s most thrilling hikes, perched along the cliffs of a narrow gorge in Málaga province. Once dubbed the world’s most dangerous path, it’s now fully restored and safe, offering breathtaking views over canyons, rivers, and the El Chorro reservoir.

Suspended walkways and a glass viewing platform make it an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and thrill seekers. The 7.7 km linear route takes 3–4 hours. Access is by guided tour or self-guided ticket, with shuttle buses available between start and end points. It’s best to book tickets online in advance due to high demand.

Day 2: Antequera

Antequera, a hidden gem in southern Spain, offers a rich blend of history, nature, and culture. Known as the “heart of Andalusia,” it boasts over 30 churches, ancient dolmens (UNESCO-listed megalithic tombs), and a charming old town.

Things to do in Antequera:

Explore the Dolmen de Menga
Hike in El Torcal Natural Park
Visit the Alcazaba fortress
Discover Peña de los Enamorados
Learn at the Museo de la Ciudad
Stroll through Plaza Coso Viejo
Admire the many historic churches

Day 3: Ronda & Setenil de las Bodegas

A day trip to Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas offers two unforgettable experiences in the heart of Andalusia. Ronda is famous for its dramatic cliffs and the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge spanning a deep gorge. Its blend of Moorish and Spanish history, stunning views, and charming old town make it a must-see.

Just a short drive away, Setenil de las Bodegas is uniquely built into and beneath massive rock overhangs, offering a one-of-a-kind atmosphere and architecture. Together, they offer an exciting mix of natural beauty, history, and culture—all in one day.

Things to do in Ronda:

Walk across the Puente Nuevo
Visit the Arab Baths
Explore the Plaza de Toros
Enjoy views from the Mirador de Ronda

Things to do in Setenil de las Bodegas:

Snap photos of the whitewashed houses under cliffs
Wander the cave house streets like Calle Cuevas del Sol
Enjoy local tapas in rock-covered cafés
Visit the Nazari Castle ruins

Where to stay in Malaga

With many different accommodation options in Malaga, there’s surely a perfect place for you. Let me help you find the right place:

Luxury – Gran Hotel Miramar

Romantic – Villa Lorena

Budget – Blue Castle GuestHouse

Family – Luminoso y coqueto apartamento con jardín

How to get to Malaga

Getting to Malaga is very easy. The airport is only a 20-minute direct metro ride from the city center. I had a fantastic experience flying into Malaga (it’s super cheap from Amsterdam) and using the metro to enter the city center. It was easy to purchase a ticket (only €1,20 in 2025) at the station and navigate to the right metro.

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Malaga

All in Málaga brings together its sun-kissed beaches, a wealth of history, worldwide art, and, not to forget, brilliant food into one dynamic city. Be it hidden tapas bars, slashing your way on towering cliffs, or ancient wonders, simply every moment is layered with something delectable in the form of culture or charm. Whether for a weekend or longer, the city meets Andalusian souls: this is sure to bring them back for another visit.