Malaga city breaks

Malaga is a seaside city full of life, with the Instagrammable Playa de la Malagueta alongside its grand castles and gardens sitting on the shimmering Mediterranean. And it boasts riches stretching way back to Roman times. We’re talking ancient arenas, Moorish fortresses, baroque cathedrals and neoclassical palaces. But it’s Malaga’s modern side that gives it an edge, whether you swing by in summer or winter. It’s the birthplace of Picasso after all, so no wonder contemporary art is big news here. As for dining, the seafood’s second to none – head to the beach for the local barbecued sardines. Oh, and this is a town that likes to party, so expect flamenco and fiestas on the menu too.

Ancient and vibrant

Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world, with the ruins of a 1st century BCE Roman theatre right in the centre of town! Just a short walk away is the stunning Moorish structure, Gibralfaro Castle, attached to the 11th century fortress of Alcazaba.

Fiesta and flamenco

The Malagüeños know how to have fun, both during the day and the night, so make sure you get involved. August hosts a really lively celebration of all things local, the Feria de Malaga, where you’ll soon learn that flamenco, tapas, and wine are all high on the agenda!

The birthplace of beautiful art

Don’t let it escape you that this is the birthplace of Picasso, and the city celebrates this with two museums dedicated to the great artist. The Picasso Foundation has a collection of his pieces in the very house he was born! Meanwhile, you’ll find other exhibitions of his famous works dotted all around.

Vincci Seleccion Posada del Patio

Malaga, Malaga

Our rating

Based on 2184 reviews

Great location for sightseeing
40m from the nearest bus stop
400m from the Alcazaba Fort
Rooftop pool
Great views of the city

Sol Guadalmar formerly TRYP Malaga Guadalmar

Malaga, Malaga

Our rating

Based on 1874 reviews

Great for a beach and city break
140m from the nearest bus stop
Located in Guadalmar
Beachfront
Outdoor Pool

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Alcazaba

Malaga

Perched high atop a hill, the Alcazaba, a 14th-century Moorish fortress, has to-die-for views over the Andalusian coastline. Highlights of this calming refuge are the Patio de los Surtidores with its bubbling...

Basilica of Santa Maria de la Victoria

Malaga

This church is rich in historical and cultural artefacts. The building dates back to the 17th century baroque period and the pretty, decorative inside is typical. Don't miss the crypt tour which, for just a...

Castillo de Gibralfaro

Malaga

Built to protect its larger cousin the Alcazaba, the Castillo de Gibralfaro has equally outstanding views of its historic surroundings below. The history of its 17-metre tower, baths, stables and living...

Language

Spanish

Currency

Euro

Time difference

+1hr

Cost of a beer

£1.80 / €2

10-trip bus pass

£7 / €8

Three course meal

£26.50 / €30.20

Sightseeing

Fortresses, museums, cathedrals – there are so many different things to clap your eyes on. Picasso’s links are detailed all around, but you’ve got castle views of the cityscape and far-reaching port to delight in, too. If you fancy a change, stay on foot and you’ll enter the glorious botanical gardens. It’s a verdant wilderness.

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Eating and drinking

Muelle Uno features some of the finest restaurants of all the streets in this buzzing city. For fresh seafood, head straight to the source of the local catch at the quaint old fishing villages of El Palo and Pedregalejo. You’ll be spoilt for choice, and in plat du jour heaven.

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Shopping

Stylish shopping in the sun is an attractive prospect in these parts, especially on the designer-lined street of Marques de Larios. As a major Spanish city, Malaga also has huge shopping centres and department stores, so if you’re a bit of a splurge addict, get ready to go wild.

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Getting around

Hop on a Segway if you’re feeling modern, or embrace a bygone era and ride by horse and carriage. Walking’s the ultimate way to truly see the sights, but Malaga’s famous for its fun and frivolous bicycle taxis. Known as ‘Trixis’, you’ll be towed by bike as you sit in a pod-like cart.