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Top 12 Things to Do in Malaga
Malaga, a colorful, versatile city meant to impress you
Being the capital of the Costa del Sol region in Spain, Malaga welcomes tourists with a wide range of places to see and things to do, whatever season you happen to come here. Diversity is the best word to describe the city. Why? Andalusian culture, ancient monuments, unique gastronomic tastes, top-notch beaches, and golf courses – this is all about Malaga. Let’s have a closer look at what is waiting for you there.
Things to see in Malaga
If you enjoy sightseeing at its fullest, Malaga has a list of must-see attractions for you to never forget this trip.
Here is our list of the Top 12 Things to Do in Malaga
See the panorama of Malaga from the walls of the Alcazaba fortress
Malaga’s got a large historical heritage starting at the walls of the Alcazaba fortress.Alcazaba, which is considered Malaga’s most impressive Moorish relic from the Islamic epoch, includes the inner and outer citadel and overlooks the city and the bay.
This panoramic view of Malaga and the surrounding landscapes will become your best memories. The Alcazaba fortress was built between 1057 and 1063 on a former Phoenician-Punic fortification site, right at the foot of Mount Gibralfaro, which houses the castle of the same name. Your list of things to see in Malaga must start with this gem.
Relive the siege of Malaga in Castillo de Gibralfaro
One more never-to-be-forgotten fortress is Castillo de Gibralfaro. Situated on top of a hill, the fortress overlooks the city, luring people to get the best pictures ever.
The fortress was designed and used as a wartime citadel. It had been heroically resisting the siege in the 15th century until the last morsels of food were eaten.
Being in an excellent state of conservation, Gibralfaro Castle has been restored. Currently, the monument is considered a Cultural Interest Property.
Inside, you can tour its walls and towers; you will surely be impressed with the views of the city. On your visit to the Castle, you can even sip a drink on the terrace of the bar located inside the enclosure.
So, visiting this sight you will definitely see a combination of historical and modern vibes.
Dream about the days long gone at the Roman Theater site
If you want to travel back in time, you should definitely have a look at the Roman Theater located below the walls of the Alcazaba fortress.
Magically, you can observe some of the tiers remaining undamaged and offering a clear picture of what the monument looked like about two millennia ago. This is a great place to reflect on your life and that of the European civilization as well.
It was built in the time of Augustus and remained in operation until the 3rd century A.D.
At present, it showcases the gallery of the entrance to the proscenium that was covered by a barrel vault, part of the orchestra, the cavea with three tiers, and the vomitorium, which gives access to the stands. So, this place is a must-visit, if you want to dream about the days long gone.
Have a look at Pablo Picasso’s birthplace
The list ofthings to see in Malaga would be incomplete without this artistic venue. Since Picasso was born in Malaga, every tourist wants to pay tribute to the famous artist. The best way to get acquainted with Picasso’s pure artis to visit his Casa Natal, where an exhibition of paintings can be discovered.
Visit the Cathedral of Malaga
Another great decision would be to visit the Cathedral of Malaga, which is the focal point of Malaga’s piety and religiousness. It took the locals 150 years to build the Cathedral.
People cherish it dearly, even though one of the towers was designed but never built! The Cathedral represents a mixture of renaissance and baroque styles, and its façade is one of the most recognizable of Malaga’s images.
Malaga’s many places of interest make an amazing set of sights that you will be proud to pleasantly recollect.
Things to do in Malaga
If you wish to feel like a local, here’s the shortlist of things to do in Malaga. Don’t skip any of the points below in case you want to truly feel the spirit of the city.
Stroll in the La Concepión Botanic Garden
Seeking the refuge from the sun, visit Málaga’s La Concepión Botanic Garden. It is almost 200 years old and collects 2,000 different plant species from all over the world.
Considered a historical-artistic garden, the botanical garden is an asset of cultural interest. This is the best place to get closer to nature and to see Malaga’s flora and fauna.
Shop like the locals do at the Atarazanas Market
On every trip, it always comes to shopping, so make sure to shop like the locals do at the Atarazanas Market. Malaga’s main market is always busy with both locals and tourists. Fish, meat, cheese, and fruit and vegetables are available at the best prices and fantastically fresh.
Except for reasonable prices and the true Andalusian spirit, you will be enchanted by the arches and stained-glass windows which are a piece of art.
In this market, you can find everything from fresh fruit to local fish, spices and so on. Atarazanas Market is one of the most visited places in Malaga. It is the finest examples of nineteenth-century architecture in Málaga.
The market is open Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 to 14:00. It is closed on Sunday.
Watch a flamenco show in Malaga
One of the best things to do in Malaga is to enjoy flamenco shows, bullfights, and street processions during the world-famous week-long festival, Feria de Agosto, which commemorates Malaga’s turn to Christianity in 1487.
Quench your curiosity in the Automobile and Fashion Museum
The Automobile and Fashion Museum is something special. Whether you are a man or a woman, this is the place to quench your curiosity.
Make sure to add this spot to your list of what to do in Malaga. That will be a great experience to visit this museum and see 100 beautiful cars from 1903 till now or admire the haute-couture display of 200 attires.
Hide from the stifling heat in the Parque de Málaga
The best location to hide from the stifling heat is the Parque de Málaga. Once you come to this park, you will get surprised how cool it is under the trees.
Enjoy the walkways and the ornate sculptures, the beautiful rose garden, and a cypress alley.
Being designed as a landscape, this park has curved lines that frame and define islands of different sizes, making you forget that you are in a rectangular space.
Spend a sunny day on Málaga Beach
Malaga Beach will win your heart. Spending a sunny day on Málaga Beach will be a contribution to your great mood for the rest of the year.
Malaga’s waterfront belongs to the Costa del Sol and is frequented both by the locals and tourists. Amazing beaches, fondling waves, and lovely sandy bays are something you will long to experience.
Here is a selection of the best beaches around Malaga:
- Malagueta beach located next to the port, it’s the closest from the city center
- Pedregalejo beach, located at the East of Malagueta
- Peñon del Cuervo beach: young people love it, it’s a great place to party!
- La Caleta beach, very crowded during summertime
- El Palo beach, a family-friendly beach located in the fishermen neighborhood of El Palo
- La Misericordia beach, one of the most popular in Malaga
- El Campo de Golf beach very popular among kite-surfers
- San Andrés beach, another popular beach, there is also a grassy areas and a playground
Feel the taste of Andalusian cuisine
Having made some purchases at the local market does not mean trying the local cuisine. When in Malaga, you need to taste a local dish that is symbolically representing the whole Costa del Sol region.
This is espetos, grilled sardine fish that is traditionally roasted on embers and can be enjoyed in all beachfront bars.
As you can see, there are a lot of things to do in the fantastic city ofMalaga. The transformation of this city in the recent decade has been extraordinary. If you want to get the highlights of Malaga, why don´t you get to know the city with a private day tour?
Visit the Soho neighborhood
Thinking about ideas about what to do in Malaga? You should go for a walk in Soho district.
Once a decaying neighborhood, it has been totally transformed and renovated and now it is the place to go and hanf out. Some buildings and facades are today completely covered with street art. The area is also called the art district.
Most art works are located close to the Contemporary Art Centre of Malaga, close to to the banks of the Guadalmedina river and in nearby streets. Wandering in this part of the town is really pleasant.
A the Soho you’ll also find handicraft shops, art galleries, restaurants serving world cuisine and a few trendy bars.
Where to stay in Malaga
Hotel Grand Miramar – The best hotel in Malaga. Set in a historic building this five stars hotel is a must stay (or visit) while you are in Malaga
Molina Lario – Can’t beat this place for location, spitting distance from the cathedral. Also a wonderful rooftop bar and modern rooms.
Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro – Paradors, for those who don’t know, are hotels usually located in an historic building like a castle – and this one in Malaga is located in Gibralfaro. Wondelful views of Malaga.
AC Marriott – Just opposite the Molina Lario is AC Marriott. If you want a recognisable chain hotel in Malaga, stay here.
The best things to do around Malaga – Day Tours from Malaga
Don’t you have a wish to be professionally guided to the best destinations? Make sure to look through the day tours from Malaga below to provide the best possible trip for yourself.
Ronda Private Day Tour
Ronda is a gem in Malaga province, partly due to the unique Puente Nuevo bridge, a pure combination of engineering and nature. This city has a welcoming soul and is known for its winding streets and whitewashed houses.
Gibraltar private day tour
Gibraltar wins your heart with its impressive views of the southernmost point and St. Michael’s Cave.
Olive Oil Mill private day tour
At a modern functioning olive oil mill and then the original one, you will get into the high-quality olive oil production process and learn it from A to Z.
Private winery tour + Tapas in Ronda
Spending a day at Finca La Melonere winery, you’ll get closer to the exquisite wine world in general and the intricacies of winemaking in particular.
Mijas Private Day trip
Never miss a real must-stop is the Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña, a chapel that offers stunning views of the cozy village and the coast below.
Granada & Alhambra private day trip
Get to see Granada, which is a mix of Greek, Roman, and Moorish cultures, associated with a plethora of unique monuments that survived the old times.
Bull and Andalusian Horse Breeding Farm Tour in Ronda
Don’t skip an opportunity to get closer to traditional country life and observe the breeding of bulls and Andalusian horses, Spain’s most renowned animals.
To round it up, Malaga is so colorful and versatile that you can take the whole family with you and yet find something to their each and every taste. Beyond any doubt, a trip to Malaga always means a wonderful trip, a must-have, and a thing that may remain unparalleled for the rest of your life.
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