Do you have some free time and want to spend it in the beautiful Spain? Why not stay for a few days and visit Malaga? There are lots of interesting places to see and fun things to do.
Photo by Tabea Schimpf on Unsplash
Spain is full of lovely cities to visit, but none quite like Malaga. If you choose to visit there, you’ll get to enjoy the Mediterranean Coast with all the charm of its lifestyle and envelop yourself in the rich history of the area. It’s an excellent place to just go and unplug from the day to day life. Spend the afternoon in a tapas bar, visit the Picasso Museum, or just walk through the old streets if you need a change of air. No matter your personal interests you’ll find great, interesting, and fun things to do in Malaga, Spain.
- Use the code YOHO12 at checkout for a 12% discount!
Things to do in Malaga
Visit the Alcazaba of Malaga and the Roman Theater
The Alcazaba of Malaga is one of the most significant landmarks in all of Malaga and it has an interesting history and architecture. This fortress was constructed in the 11th century by the Hammudid dynasty, at a time when Moorish people used the city as a strategic strong point. But it wasn’t only a fortress, it was also a palace, and you can see this even today in its gardens and courtyards, decorated with rich mosaics and lush fountains.
Since you’re already there, and interested in history, you should visit the Roman Theater. Before the Moorish people, the Romans had already set foot in Malaga. There are a few more ruins all around the city, but the theater is different. For once, it was only rediscovered in the mid-20th century and quickly excavated and integrated into the local culture. So now, you have the opportunity to see this ancestral structure being used again for events and performances!
Climbing Gibralfaro
If you enjoyed the previous hike, then how about climbing up one of Malaga’s most famous hills? If you love the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscapes then you can’t miss the views from Gibralfaro. But people don’t go all the way up there for the views, there’s also the Castillo de Gibralfaro, a 14th-century Moorish fortress, this one from the Nasrid dynasty.
Tips for visiting Gibralfaro:
-
Best time to visit: Either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This way, first, you’ll have fantastic colors in the sky to admire, and secondly, you’ll avoid both the crowds and the heat.
-
Combine the visit with Alcazaba: Since both share important characteristics and are relatively close. In fact, you can walk from one to the other.
Photo by Myfanwy Owen on Unsplash
Visit the Picasso Museum in Malaga
If you’re an art lover and like to know fun facts about famous artists, then you probably know this already, but Malaga is actually where Picasso was born. So it’s easy to understand why the Picasso Museum is such an interesting place. It’s housed in the Palacio de Buenavista, and not in Picasso’s house, mind you, but that’s probably because 2oo art pieces are hard to expose elsewhere.
Tips for visiting the Picasso Museum:
-
Check for special and temporary exhibitions: If you’re traveling during a specific time of year, check their website and buy tickets well in advance in case you can see some rare works of his.
-
See the works in chronological order: Here’s a fun experiment you can do, take your time and see how little by little his art changed throughout his life.
Stroll through Mercado Central de Atarazanas
You can’t visit a historic city without visiting a historic and iconic market, right? There’s nothing quite like getting lost in the blend of local flavors, fresh produce, and authentic Andalusian culture. The market is the heart of the city and an important stop for all the traveling foodies. In the Mercado Central de Atarazanas, you’ll find an incredible opportunity to experience the region’s specialties, like jamon iberico, fried fish, boquerones en vinagre olives, and many vendors that offer ready-to-eat food.
If you want more things to do in Spain’s top cities, check out this article: 5 Best Cities to Visit in Spain for First-Timers.
Photo by Lynn Van den Broeck on Unsplash
Enjoy Tapas and local Bars
Now that you’re in the mood for more authentic food in Malaga, let’s explore more things to do, where to go, and what to try! If you’re unfamiliar with the term, tapas is the word Spanish people use for savory appetizers or snacks that usually go well with a cold beer.
Where to get the best tapas in Malaga:
-
El Pimpi: A historical bodega where you have the perfect mix of traditional tapas and local wines, including sweet Malaga wines. It’s located near the Roman Theater and it’s one of the best places to enjoy the Andalusian hospitality.
-
Taberna La Tranca: A beloved spot for the locals and you’ll love it too. If you don’t know what to order, try their croquetas and patatas bravas.
-
Los Patios de Beatas: More known for their elegant wine list, it’s still great to go if you want to have some nice tapas paired with excellent wine.
Photo by Evelyn Semenyuk on Unsplash
Visit the Malaga Cathedral
If you’re looking for the best samples of Renaissance and Baroque architecture in Malaga then you’ve found it in La Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación, commonly known just as Malaga Cathedral. You can admire how the main part of the cathedral is made in the Renaissance style, while the finer details like the interior decoration and the facade are all Baroque. If you’re curious about this, is just because the construction took over 200 years. But that’s normal for a building like that, and in fact, it was never completed. Due to economic constraints, one of its towers wasn’t finished. That’s why the locals call her affectionately La Manquita (The One-Armed Lady).
What else to see in the Malaga Cathedral:
-
The museum: Don’t forget to spend some time there if you want to learn more about its construction and see some old religious artifacts.
-
Panoramic views: Climb up the tower to admire the full city and part of the Mediterranean Sea from there.
Photo by Jonas Denil on Unsplash
Hiking the Caminito del Rey
But enough with old buildings filled with old objects, however fascinating they might be. Let’s get the blood flowing with a good hike. Famous not only in Malaga but also in Spain, The Caminito del Rey (King’s Little Path) is one of the most spectacular hikes you can wish for. The path runs along the El Chorro Gorge, so you know you’re getting spectacular views of the towering cliffs, the lush forest, and the Guadalhorce River.
Fun facts about the Caminito del Rey Hike:
-
It was once considered one of the most dangerous hikes in the world, but since it was restored in 2010 is perfectly safe.
-
The total hike is 7.7 km, so it’s not excessive if you’re in decent shape. It shouldn’t take more than 2 to 3 hours to complete.
-
It was originally built during the 20th century, so the workers in the hydroelectric plants could go to work.
Relax at Playa Malagueta
You must be exhausted and all sweaty after such a hike, so let’s head to the beach and enjoy more things to do! And what better beach in all of Malaga than Playa Malagueta, it’s not far at all, just a short walk from the city center. This means that there are plenty of facilities and amenities to enjoy there, sunbeds and umbrellas to lay down, kayaks and paddleboards to brave the waves, and chiringuitos to eat fresh fried fish and drinks. On the downside, if you don’t like crowds then you better visit in the off-season.
Expert Tips for Traveling to Málaga: Things to Do & More
-
Embrace Malaga’s unique blend of old and new: The city is full of this duality between the old buildings and the modern amenities, and this is one of the most fascinating aspects of it. So enjoy both sides to the fullest and immerse in both the history and the modernity of Malaga.
-
Explore the beaches: If you didn’t enjoy the popularity of Playa Malagueta, then there are other options for you. You can explore quieter beaches like Playa del Palo, which also has a more local vibe.
-
Stay connected with Yoho Mobile: Whether you’re staying in Malaga or traveling to other cities in Spain, you’ll need a way to stay connected with the rest of the world without the abysmal costs of traditional roaming plans. Save money and hassle with a Yoho Mobile eSIM! Use promo code YOHO12 for 12% off on your next purchase.