A Guide To Visiting Malaga: The Best Places To See

Malaga is a vibrant and beautiful city in the south of Spain. Located along the Mediterranean coast, Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world and is said to have been founded by the Phoenicians more than 3,000 years ago. It is a major tourist destination and a gateway to the Costa del Sol and its stunning beaches. The city is renowned for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a city break, a beach holiday, or an adventure in the mountains, there’s something for everyone in Malaga.

From its Moorish influences to its unique regional cuisine, Malaga has something to offer every traveler. Here’s an introduction to the best places to visit in Malaga, from its ancient monuments to its lively tapas bars.

The Historic Centre of Malaga

At the heart of Malaga lies its historic centre, a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with old buildings and monuments. The city centre is home to some of Malaga’s most important attractions, including the Renaissance-style Palacio de Buenavista, the Baroque Catedral de la Encarnación, and the bustling Plaza de la Merced.

One of the most popular attractions in Malaga’s historic centre is the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress built in the 11th century. This impressive fortress is one of the best preserved Moorish monuments in Europe and offers fantastic views of the city.

The historic centre of Malaga is also home to some of the city’s best tapas bars and restaurants. Sample some of Andalusia’s finest cuisine and take a leisurely stroll around the attractive plazas, promenades, and cobbled streets.

The Beaches of Malaga

Malaga’s stunning beaches are a great way to relax and soak up some sunshine. The city has several beaches along its coastline, from long stretches of golden sand to small coves hidden away from the crowds. The beaches of El Palo, La Cala del Moral, and La Carihuela are particularly popular with tourists and are ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

If you’re looking for a more active experience, you can try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing on Malaga’s beaches. There are also numerous water sports available, including kayaking, sailing, and jet skiing.

The Malaga Mountains

The Malaga Mountains provide an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its lush vegetation and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s no wonder why this area is so popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers.

One of the most popular routes is the Sendero de los Cinco Refugios, which offers five days of incredible views across the mountains and valleys. This route passes through some of Andalusia’s finest landscapes, including dense forests and meadows filled with wildflowers. If you’re looking for a shorter route, there are plenty of shorter trails that wind through the mountainside.

The Museums & Galleries of Malaga

Malaga has a rich cultural heritage and it boasts a large number of museums and galleries that offer insight into its past. The world-famous Museo Picasso Málaga houses an impressive collection of works by Picasso, as well as other renowned artists such as Zurbarán, Dalí, Miró, and Goya. The Museum of Glass and Crystal showcases a spectacular range of glassworks from around the world and is a must-see for all art lovers.

The Contemporary Art Centre of Málaga (CAC Málaga) is one of the most important contemporary art spaces in Spain. Located in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre, it showcases a wide range of works from established and emerging Spanish and international artists.

Sample Malaga’s Regional Cuisine

No visit to Malaga would be complete without sampling some of its delicious regional cuisine. The city’s traditional dishes are based on fresh local ingredients such as seafood, vegetables, fruit, and olive oil. Some popular dishes include espetos de sardinas (grilled sardines), gazpacho (cold tomato soup), calamares (fried squid), tortilla de patatas (potato omelette), and pescaito frito (fried fish).

For dessert, try some of the many delicious pastries on offer in Malaga’s bakeries. The city’s traditional pastries include rice pudding (arroz con leche), almond cake (torta de almendras), apple tart (tarta de manzana), custard tart (tarta de nata), and fig tart (tarta de higos).

Sample Two Popular Tours

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Malaga, why not book a tour? There are plenty of tours available that offer insight into the city’s history, culture, architecture, and cuisine. Here are two popular tours that are sure to make your trip extra special:

Taste of Malaga Food Tour

This three-hour tour takes you on a culinary journey through Malaga’s bustling streets and markets. Sample traditional dishes such as gazpacho and pescaito frito while learning about the city’s unique cuisine from your knowledgeable guide. Visit local markets where you’ll have the opportunity to buy traditional ingredients for yourself. At the end of this tour you’ll have a better understanding of how food plays an important role in everyday life in Malaga. You can book a Taste of Malaga Food Tour online.

Malaga City Sightseeing Tour

This four-hour guided tour takes you on a journey around Malaga’s historic centre. Visit some of the city’s most important monuments such as La Catedral de la Encarnación and Alcazaba fortress. Learn about Malaga’s intriguing history from your knowledgeable guide and discover hidden gems in the narrow alleys and cobbled streets. You can book a Malaga City Sightseeing Tour online.