Discover Malaga Spain; A Local
Guide to Travel, Culture,
and Hidden Gems
Welcome to Malaga Spain.
Discover the beauty, culture, and soul of one of Spain´s most captivating coastal cities.
My name is Anton, and I live just outside Málaga. Over the years, I've wandered its winding old town streets, relaxed on sun-drenched beaches, explored hidden alleyways, and tasted more tapas than I can count. The city, has become a part of me, and now I want to share it with you.
Málaga, capital of Costa del Sol, is more than just a tourist destination. It´s a place where ancient history, vibrant modern life, and natural beauty all come together. Whether you´re here for a short visit or planning a longer stay, I hope to help you discover not just where to go, but why this city will capture your heart.
Join me as I guide you through the best things to see and do in Malaga Spain. From must-visit attractions to secret local spots, delicious food, stunning day trips, and practical travel tips.
Ready to experience Málaga like a local? Let´s begin.
Things To Do In Malaga Spain
Malaga, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is a city where history, culture, and sunshine come together beautifully.
It simply is a travellers dream, there’s no shortage of things to see, taste, and experience.
Whether you´re exploring ancient castles, relaxing in an Arab bath, tasting local dishes, or heading out to white villages, every day brings something special.
Visit Landmarks
Malaga, one of the oldest city´s in the world, is blessed with iconic monuments like the Alcazaba fortress and Gribralfaro castle. Both these landmarks are tourist hotspots for their historical significance, stunning views, and unique blend of culture occupation over the years. Both sites provide a glimpse into the city´s rich past and make for memorable sightseeing experiences.
Budget-friendly attractions that showcase intricate details of Moorish architecture, courtyards and gardens.
Málaga's Old Town offers a blend of historical intrigue, cultural richness, and modern amenities, making it a popular spot for a wide range of travellers. It´s known for its lively streets, bustling plazas, and numerous bars and restaurants, a taste of Andalusian culture. The area offers a mix of historical sites, including the cathedral of Malaga.
I love the inside of this iconic church. You'll experience a sense of awe and grandeur due to its impressive size, intricate architecture, and rich ornamentation. The soaring columns, vaulted ceilings, and beautiful stained glass create a space that is both imposing and uplifting. A place of peace and contemplation.
Another of the old town´s historic icons is the Roman Amphitheatre. The theatre, with its location at the foot of Mount Gibralfaro, offers a beautiful backdrop for exploring history and enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere. It's structure, including the cavea (seating area), orchestra, and stage, showcases Roman architectural and engineering skills.
Not only is it a historical site; it's also a venue for cultural events and performances, bringing the space back to life in a modern context.
Visit Museums
Did you know that there are more than 40 museums in Malaga. Undoubtedly the standout is Picasso. Also located in the old town this landmark houses a permanent collection of over 200 of his works, spanning different periods and styles. It offers a comprehensive overview of Picasso's artistic career, showcasing his diverse styles and techniques.
Carmen Thyssen Museum is well-worth a visit. The museum's collection is largely dedicated to Spanish art from the 19th and early 20th centuries, which is not always widely represented in other major museums. It offers a strong emphasis on Andalusian art and artists, allowing you to explore the cultural richness of the region. I´m particularly impressed by the section featuring works that depict Spanish landscapes and scenes of daily life,
The Car and Fashion Museum. I was blown away by its impressive collection of nearly 100 meticulously restored classic cars alongside over 200 haute couture pieces, offering you with a journey through both mechanical and artistic evolution. You may think that this is a strange museum suggestion of things to do in Malaga Spain, but it offers a memorable and surprising experience, according to many travellers and myself.
I'm in progress of putting a guide together on museums in Malaga. Here are some you can look forward to.
- The Interactive Music Museum
- Wine Museum
- Cathedral Museum
- Astilleros Nereo
- Malaga´s Museum
- Pompidou Centre
- Flamenco Art Museum
More Things to do In Malaga (Beyond the Monuments)
Stroll the Harbour and Take a Boat Trip
Málaga’s modern harbour area, Muelle Uno, is a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon. I often go there for sunset, sipping tinto de verano, to end the day. There are plenty open-air restaurants, trendy shops, and palm-lined walkways. From here, you can hop on a boat cruise — anything from a sunset sail to dolphin-spotting tours or a chilled catamaran ride.
Explore by Bike or Tuk Tuk
Short on time or just want to see more without walking everywhere? Join a bike tour or hop into a tuk tuk for a fun, relaxed way to explore the city. Local guides will take you through the best neighbourhoods, beach promenades, and hidden corners you might otherwise miss.
Spend a Day at the Beach
With several beaches right on the city´s doorstep, you don’t need to walk far to enjoy the sea. The closest beach is La Malagueta. It´s just around the corner from the harbour and most popular, but venture a little further for quieter spots like Playa de la Caleta or Pedregalejo, where you can also feast on freshly grilled espeto (sardines) by the water.
Take a Day Trip from Málaga
If you use Málaga as your base it is easy to explore nearby gems. With good train- and bus links, you can hop about hassle-free. Take a scenic train ride to Ronda, visit the white villages of Frigiliana or Mijas Pueblo, hike the dramatic Caminito del Rey, or enjoy a wine-tasting day in the countryside. There are plenty of day trip options for every type of traveller.
Watch a Flamenco Show
If you´ve never been to Andalusian flamenco I cannot recommend it enough. Even if you’re not usually into live shows — the passion and energy of flamenco — the music, the dancing, the raw storytelling — is something you won’t forget.
Go Shopping on Calle Larios
No visit to Málaga Spain is complete without a walk down Calle Larios, the city’s main shopping street. Here you’ll find elegant boutiques, international brands, and Spanish fashion houses — plus plenty of ice cream shops and cafés to treat yourself after some retail therapy.
Wander the Old Town
Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world, and its Old Town reflects this with Roman ruins, Moorish architecture, and Baroque churches. Lose yourself in the charming streets of Málaga’s Old Town. You’ll find lively plazas, local boutiques, street art, and cafés spilling out onto cobbled alleys.
Stop for a café con leche and try some traditional tapas at El Pimpi, a well-known bodega and restaurant. I recommend you try out an ajoblanco, (cold almond and garlic soup) with boquerones (anchovies) and their speciality octopus salad.
Why Málaga Is So Easy to Enjoy
One of the best things about Málaga is how walkable it is. Most major attractions are located within the historic centre or just a short walk away. Whether you’re into monuments, museums, food, or beach time, you can easily enjoy it all without needing to drive, getting a taxi or jump into busses.
Where To Eat in Malaga
From buzzing tapas bars in the old town t0 beachside chiringuitos serving fresh sardine skewers, the city is full of flavour. You´ll also find vegetarian-friendly restaurants, cosy cafes for coffee and pastries, and rooftop bars with unforgettable views of the cathedral and port.
Malaga Spain offers something for every taste and budget.
Discover the best places to eat in Malaga.
More to Come…
👉 I’ll be adding more detailed guides soon—covering hidden gems, nearby day trips, food tips, and everything you need to enjoy Málaga like a local.
Best Time to Visit
Steeped in history and sunshine the city shimmers on the southern coast of Spain. It´s one of the largest and most accessible cities in Andalucia and increasingly become more popular year on year.
2024 have seen a 10 percent rise, for tourists visiting Spain, from the year before. A whopping 94 million international visitors (spending 126 billion euros) crossed its borders and unsurprisingly, for its warm winter climate and other factors, Malaga Spain is one of the most popular places to visit on the Costa del Sol.
To help you choose the best time to visit, below is a short guide.
- for Sunshine and beach: May to October
- for best out of season deals: February and March
- and for winter sun: October & November
- for outdoor activities: April and May
- avoiding the crowds: November to March
SBI - "Solo Built It" website in progress... lots more to come from a locals perspective.