The Ultimate Travel Guide to Malaga

Welcome to the sunny and vibrant city of Malaga, the gateway to Andalucia and Costa del Sol! Malaga is a perfect blend of rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning beaches. As the birthplace of the famous artist Pablo Picasso, the city is also renowned for its art scene and cultural experiences, being also home to the only foreign branch of the famous Centre Pompidou.

Malaga has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, soaking up the sun on the Mediterranean coast, or indulging in delicious Spanish cuisine.

In this ultimate travel guide to Malaga we will go on a journey around the city and the region, discovering all the wonderful sights and experiences that you can have here.

Malaga Itineraries:

These are my comprehensive guides to exploring the charming city of Malaga. These Malaga itineraries have been designed to help you make the most of your time in the city, whether you are here for a quick weekend getaway or a longer holiday. There are plenty of things to do in Malaga, so I’ve gathered the best of them in these itineraries, grouping the attractions by distance, and adding recommendations of hotels and restaurants which, as a local, I have personally tested.

Get ready to discover Malaga!

The Best Things to Do in Malaga:

I have prepared guides on the top attractions and experiences in Malaga that you won’t want to miss during your stay here. From exploring the Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro Castle to marvelling at the works of Picasso at the museum dedicated to his life and art, from soaking up the sun on one of the Malaga’s beautiful sandy beaches to discovering the fantastic food scene of the city, there is something from everyone in Malaga.

Get ready to discover the best things to do in Malaga with my guides on this sunny city.

The Best Beaches in Malaga:

Malaga is a paradise for sunshine lovers, with over 160 kilometres of coastline and two beautiful urban beaches. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun, take a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean Sea, or try your hand at some water sports, the beaches in and around Malaga have it all.

In my guide on the best beaches in Malaga I highlighted some of the best seaside locations, complete with insider tips on where to find the best amenities, food, and drink. Grab your sunscreen and beach towel, and get ready to discover the stunning coastline of Malaga!

Special Days in Malaga:

Easter and Christmas are taken very seriously in Malaga, both being marked by spectacular festivities that shouldn’t be missed. These celebrations are offering a unique glimpse into the local culture, and they are both great times to visit Malaga. In the guides below I will tell you what to expect from spending Christmas or Easter in Malaga, where to find the best parades and how to enjoy the festive seasons alongside the locals.

White Villages Near Malaga

The whitewashed villages near Malaga are a must-visit for anyone travelling here. These villages, also called pueblos blancos, have pretty houses, narrow streets and stunning mountain backdrops, just like in a postcard.  

The white villages are not just beautiful, but visiting them will also give you a glimpse into the Andalucian history and culture. Most of these villages were built on top of hills and acted as defence fortresses against the invaders coming from the land or the sea.

Today, these white villages near Malaga are wonderful places to visit.

Hiking in Malaga

These are my guides to hiking near Malaga. The city is privileged to be located to close to some wonderful mountains, offering plenty of trails with all grades of difficulty. It doesn’t matter if you are a professional hiker or just want to enjoy a day out in nature, I have something for everyone. In these guides I will also tell you how to prepare and if the trails are ok or not to visit in summer (when it gets really hot).