The cultural heart of the Costa del Sol, Malaga is a bustling city with plenty to see and explore. Ringed by ancient citadels and looking out over the glittering blue waves of the Mediterranean, Malaga is full of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. The question isn’t what to do in Malaga but what to do first!
Whether it’s visiting Picasso’s birthplace, walking around an ancient Roman theatre or relaxing on sandy beaches, there’s an abundance of things to do in Malaga. There’s no time like the present, so book your trip now with these great Malaga holiday packages.
One of Malaga’s most recognizable landmarks, the sweeping hilltop ruins of the Castillo Gibralfaro can be seen from across the city. Monte Gibralfaro has been the site of fortifications since the Phoenicians, and its views over the city and out to the Mediterranean are truly breathtaking.
Not to be missed: In the former gunpowder arsenal is a little museum that shows the castle’s fascinating history.
Born in Malaga in 1881, Picasso is one of the most celebrated artists of all time. The Picasso Museum houses a vast collection of his work and it’s a fitting celebration of Malaga’s most famous inhabitant. The museum’s size and scope make it one of the best things to do in Malaga.
Not to be missed: The audio tour gives you a brilliant introduction to the artist and his works.
How many urban cities have an amazing beach right on their doorstep? The playa de la Malagueta is just north of the port and it’s ideal for a relaxing day or two…
Not to be missed: For ultimate comfort, serious sun-bathers can rent hammocks and parasols.
Built in the Renaissance style, Málaga Catedral is an imposing architectural masterpiece at the heart of the city. Famously, the cathedral’s second tower was never built due to funding restraints, earning it the legendary moniker: ‘the one-armed lady’.
Not to be missed: Look out for the altarpiece of the Chapel of Santa Barbara and the 16th-century tombs of the Chapel of San Francisco.
Malaga’s Alcazaba is the best-preserved palatial fortification in all of Spain. Built in the 11th-century, the palace is a great centre of history and a must-see for any visitor to the city. It’s also steeped in beauty and a hotspot for photography.
Not to be missed: There are signs of past inhabitants everywhere, look out for the Roman cisterns used for making garum and the dungeon that has a terrifying history.
At the foot of the Alcazaba fortress, the Roman Theatre is the oldest monument in the city. The theatre was buried by years of dirt and only rediscovered in 1951; after a massive restoration project the theatre can now be seen in all its former glory. There are plenty of open-air performances throughout the summer.
Not to be missed: The visitors centre is a must if you want to learn more about the ruins and its excavation.
Malaga’s port is one of the oldest in Spain and the Mediterranean. It’s a hive of activity and it’s the perfect place for a stroll after a hard day relaxing on the beaches. Visitors can see the busy fishing port and take boat trips along the Malaga coastline.
The beautiful Mercado Central de Atarazanas is a fantastic example of 19th-century architecture and a staple of local life in the city. Alive with scents, sights and sounds: the market is a true feast for the senses.
Not to be missed: Any visitor to the market should be sure to try the tapas and fried fish dishes that are something of a speciality.
A scenic strip of green running along the centre of the city, the park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. There are also fine examples of botanical gardens, fountains and sculptures to admire.
Not to be missed: Every Sunday at noon, the Malaga Municipal Band give a performance at the Eduardo Ocon Bandstand.
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