How many days do you recommend for a Malaga city break?

Three to four days allows for exploring the main historical sites, indulging in local cuisine, enjoying some beach time, and soaking up the city's vibrant atmosphere without feeling rushed. If you wish to include a day trip to nearby areas like Ronda or Nerja, consider extending your stay to five days.

Does Malaga have good beaches easily accessible from the city?

Yes, Malaga boasts several urban beaches that are very easy to reach. The most popular is Playa de la Malagueta, located just a 15-minute walk from the city centre. It's a sandy beach with plenty of chiringuitos (beach bars), sun loungers, and facilities. Further along the coast, you'll find other pleasant beaches like La Caleta and Pedregalejo, which offer a more local feel.

What's the nightlife scene like in Malaga?

Malaga has a lively and diverse nightlife scene that caters to various tastes. The historic city centre is brimming with traditional tapas bars, trendy cocktail bars, and pubs, many of which are open until late. For those looking to dance, there are numerous clubs dotted around, particularly in areas like Plaza de la Merced and Calle Larios, offering everything from flamenco to contemporary electronic music. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and sociable.

What are the absolute must-see attractions in Malaga?

For a short break, make sure to visit the Alcazaba (Moorish fortress), the adjacent Roman Theatre, the Picasso Museum Malaga, the stunning Malaga Cathedral, and take a walk up to the Castillo de Gibralfaro for panoramic views.

Malaga City City Breaks, Holidays & Hotels 2026/2027

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.

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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

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Based on 2894 reviews

Located in the historic centre
Rooftop pool
650m from Malaga Cathedral
Certified sustainable hotel
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Sol Guadalmar

Malaga, Malaga

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Based on 2387 reviews

Located in Guadalmar
Beachfront
Great for a beach and city break
Outdoor Pool
Certified Sustainable Hotel

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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

Local beer

£2.50

One way local travel tickets

£1.20

Three-course meal for two

£42.10

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.

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Malaga

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Malaga city breaks

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Ancient and vibrant

Fiesta and flamenco