First Time in Malaga, Spain: What to Know Before You Go
First time in Malaga? You’re in for a Moorish fortress overlooking the old town, more tapas bars than you could ever hit in one trip, city beaches a short walk from the center, and plenty of museums to keep you busy for a month!
Consider this your companion guide (don’t forget to bookmark me!) for your first trip to Malaga. You’ll find out how to get here, where to stay, how to get around, what to eat and drink, and, of course, the best things to do in Malaga! Trust me, you’re gonna want to keep reading! Don’t be like me and assume Malaga is just an airport city with a lot of stag-dos!
Whether you want to explore the Alcazaba, wander the narrow streets of the old town, or just find the perfect plate of tapas, you’ll find it all here!
First Time in Malaga, Spain: Malaga Travel Guide
Need a Place to Stay? My Favorite Hotels in Malaga
- Casa Miraflores – I LOVED staying here. The rooms are really nice, the host is responsive, and the location is great!
- Hotel Larios Malaga – Modern rooms and a nice breakfast, great location
- Malaga Center Flat – Great cathedral views and perfect if you want your own space
The Basics for Your First Time in Malaga
- Location: Southern Spain, on the Costa del Sol
- Region: Andalusia
- Currency: Euro
- Language: Spanish
- Average Temperature: Summer 88°F/31°C, Winter 63°F/17°C
- Time Zone: Central European Time (1 hour ahead of the UK and usually 6 hours ahead of New York)
- Power Plugs/Sockets: Type C and F, 230V/50Hz (the two round pins)
- Malaga is one of the oldest cities in Europe, founded by the Phoenicians nearly 3,000 years ago
- Pablo Picasso was born here in 1881
How to Get to Malaga
By Plane: Most people will fly into Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), only about 5 miles from the city center. Plenty of flights run from the UK and across Europe. Several UK airports serve Málaga, including Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds, and London. If you are flying from the US, you will have a layover in one of the major cities, like London, Dublin, or Madrid, as there are no direct flights to Malaga from the US.
By Train: Malaga’s main station is María Zambrano. High-speed trains run from Madrid in around 2.5 hours, so Malaga is an easy add-on if you’re already in Madrid.
By Bus: Buses run into Malaga from cities all over Spain. If you are on a budget, check FlixBus and ALSA for your route. The bus station sits right next to María Zambrano train station.
By Boat: Malaga has a cruise port right next to the old town, so if your Mediterranean cruise stops here, you can walk right in. I don’t think one day is enough to eat your way through Malaga, but it’s better than nothing! wink
How to Get to Malaga from Malaga Airport
The airport is super close to the city center (literally one of my favorite things about flying into this city), and you have three easy options. Before you choose how you are getting into Malaga from the airport, know where your accommodation is. The old town has narrow streets (and some pedestrian-only zones), so taking a taxi might be more expensive, but it could get you closer to your accommodation with a large suitcase.
Cheapest and Fastest Option by Train: The train station is a short 2-3 minute walk from the arrivals hall at Malaga Airport. The train ride is about 12 minutes and costs under 2 euros. Take the C1 line to Málaga Centro-Alameda. Do not get off at Malaga-María Zambrano; that will put you further away from the old town.
Budget Options by Bus: The Line “A” Express bus takes you straight from the airport to Malaga. The buses aren’t as frequent as the trains, but you can get straight into the city center.
Most Expensive Option by Taxi: The taxi rank is right outside Arrivals, and the tariffs are posted in the back window of every taxi, so there’s no guessing game. Expect to pay roughly €25 to €35 to the center. This is the best choice if you land late after the trains stop, you have lots of luggage, or you’re a nervous traveler. You can also download the Bolt app and order a Bolt
How to Get Around Malaga
The best way to get around Malaga is on foot. The center is compact, and most of the big sights (the Alcazaba, the cathedral, the Picasso Museum, Atarazanas Market…) are a short walk from each other.
BUT… and this is important… the old town is NOT on a grid. It’s a maze of narrow, winding streets, and I got turned around constantly. Literally just wandering around aimlessly (which isn’t a bad thing!). Google Maps is a lifesaver here! If you don’t have an eSIM or roaming, download the Malaga map for offline use before you arrive or while you’re still on your accommodation’s WiFi.
How Many Days Should I Stay in Malaga?
For your first time in Malaga, plan on 3 to 4 days. Malaga is compact and very walkable, so you can hit the big highlights in 2 days, but 3 or 4 gives you time for a museum or two, a beach afternoon, and (most importantly) long, slow meals.
If you only have 2 days, you’ll be able to see the Alcazaba, the cathedral, and the main streets of the old town, but you’ll feel the squeeze, especially with SO many places to eat! And if you want to add day trips from Malaga, you’ll need even more time. I’m saving those for another post, so stay tuned!
Is Malaga Safe?
Yes, Malaga is generally a safe city for visitors, including solo travelers!
Like any popular destination, pickpockets target crowded areas, so keep your bag zipped and in front of you (I’m a crossbody bag girl for this exact reason) and don’t leave your phone sitting on the end of the restaurant table, especially while you’re sitting outside by the busy walkways. A little awareness goes a long way.
Things to Do in Malaga
I can’t name them all; that’s for another post… but these are the must-dos for your first time in Malaga! I’ve grouped them by category so you can mix and match depending on what you’re into. The center is compact, so you can easily fit a few from each group into the same day.
Historic Places
Malaga is one of the oldest cities in Europe, and you can see the layers… Romans, Moors, and Christians… just by walking a few minutes in any direction. I know you’re probably thinking.. Malaga for history? What?! Trust me, I was too, but I was so surprised by how much depth the city’s history actually has.
The Alcazaba
The Alcazaba is a Moorish fortress dating back to the 11th century, and it’s the number one thing to do in Malaga if you are visiting for the first time. You’ll wander through courtyards, fountains, and gardens, with views over the city and the port at pretty much every turn.
- Tickets: Buy your ticket at the entrance. You can choose the Alcazaba only, or a combined ticket with Gibralfaro Castle
- Free entry: Sundays after 2pm (but expect crowds!)
- Tip: Go first thing in the morning or later in the day to avoid the midday heat, and wear comfy shoes because there’s a lot of uphill walking. Last entry is earlier than closing time, and earlier in winter.
Castillo de Gibralfaro
Just above the Alcazaba is Gibralfaro Castle. You can purchase a joint ticket for the two at a discounted price. The castle was built in the 10th century and connected to the fortress below some 400 years later.
The Roman Theatre
Right at the foot of the Alcazaba is a Roman theatre from the 1st century BC, and it’s free to visit. It’s a great reminder of how much history is stacked up in one spot… Romans at the bottom, Moors at the top!
Malaga Cathedral (La Manquita)
The cathedral took over 250 years to build, and the second tower was never finished (because they ran out of money), which is why locals call it La Manquita, or “the one-armed lady.”
Viewpoints
Malaga’s center is pretty flat, so if you want a view, head up… and the best ones come with a little history. Win-win for my history and culture fans who love to get to the highest point in a city for those breathtaking views!
- The Alcazaba: The fortress walls and gardens offer views over the rooftops, the cathedral, and the port, and you don’t have to hike all the way to the top to get them. In fact, there’s a sneaky elevator around the back that you can use to get to the top!
- Gibralfaro Castle: This hilltop castle is known for having the best views in Malaga. I haven’t made it up there yet (it’s on my list for next time!), but it’s on the same combo ticket as the Alcazaba. The two have separate entrances, so give yourself around 3 hours if you want to do both.
- OXO Rooftop Terrace: The video game museum has a rooftop terrace with views of the cathedral… you don’t need a ticket to the museum; just tell the check-in desk that you are going to the rooftop bar!
- Malaga Cathedral Rooftop Tour: Ok, hear me out… I haven’t done this because visits have been suspended since 2024 for renovation work, but when it reopens, this will be a must-visit for your first time in Malaga!
Garden Spaces
If you need a break from cobblestones and crowds, Malaga has some pretty green spots to escape to.
- The Alcazaba Gardens: The gardens inside the Alcazaba are a highlight of the visit, with courtyards and fountains around every corner. I could’ve spent all day walking around the gardens here and lounging on every bench.
- Malaga Cathedral Garden: This small green space is in the middle of the old town, but it’s a small escape from the surrounding buildings.
- Parque de Málaga: A palm-lined park that runs alongside the port, right next to the old town. It’s free, and it’s the perfect place to slow down for a bit.
- Jardín Botánico La Concepción: Malaga’s big botanical garden sits a bit outside the center, so I’m saving it for next time, but it’s the one to look up if you’re a garden lover.
Museums
I’ll be honest, I only made time for one museum this trip… but Malaga is packed with them, and for a city this size it’s a seriously good museum town.
- Museo Picasso Málaga: Picasso was born in Malaga, and this museum is housed in a beautiful 16th-century palace. Pre-book your tickets and check the museum’s website for free entry hours.
- Picasso’s Birthplace (Casa Natal): You can visit the house where Picasso was born on Plaza de la Merced. It’s a quick stop and it’s right in the middle of the old town.
- Centre Pompidou Málaga: This museum is inside the colorful glass cube at the Port of Malaga (Muelle Uno). You can’t miss it, even if you don’t go in!
- OXO Museo del Videojuego: This is the one I made time for, and yes, it’s as fun as it sounds. It covers around 70 years of gaming history across several floors, and it’s VERY hands-on, so you actually get to play. Give yourself at least 2 hours, you will lose track of time!
Beaches and Waterfront
One of the best parts of Malaga is that you can see the sights in the morning and have your toes in the sand by the afternoon.
- La Malagueta: The city beach, about a 15 to 20 minute walk east of the old town. It’s the easiest beach day you can do without ever leaving the city. Just be warned, during the summer months, this beach is VERY busy. I mean, VERY VERY busy.
- Pedregalejo: Further east along the coast, this seaside neighborhood is known for its beachside restaurants and is where locals go for grilled fish and espetos.
- Muelle Uno (Port of Malaga): The port promenade with shops, restaurants, and sea views. It’s perfect for a stroll, especially at sunset… also a nice place to walk around and admire the super yachts. I can also confirm it’s a lovely place to have cocktails when it’s pouring it down.
What to Eat and Drink in Malaga
Okay, let’s talk food, because you WILL eat well in Malaga… and choosing where to eat is the hard part. There are SO many restaurants and bars, and I’m saving my full restaurant and cafe rundown for its own post. For now, here’s what you need to try, grouped by category so you know what to look for on the menu!
Tapas and Small Plates
Tapas are the heart of eating in Malaga, so don’t be afraid to order a bunch of little plates and graze your way through the day.
- Croquetas: I ate croquettes everywhere, and I have zero regrets. Creamy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and every place does them a little differently. I could probably write an entire guide on the best croquettes in Malaga… maybe I should?
- Jamón and Manchego: Every chance I got to eat ham, I took it. Order a plate of serrano or ibérico ham with some manchego cheese and call it a meal. Or at least a starter. Or desert.
- Berenjenas con Miel de Caña: Fried eggplant drizzled with sugar cane honey. It sounds odd, and it’s SO good.
- Ensaladilla Rusa: Spain has potato salad everywhere, but locals will tell you Malaga does it best. They seem to mix up the recipe a bit, so it might not be what you are expecting. Definitely a must-try!
Seafood
Malaga sits right on the Mediterranean, so the seafood is a big deal here.
- Pescaíto Frito: Malaga’s famous fried fish. A plate of lightly battered fish (anchovies, squid, and other small fish) with a squeeze of lemon is a Malaga classic.
- Espetos de Sardinas: I’m not a sardine person, so I skipped these… but they’re the dish Malaga is most famous for. Whole sardines are grilled on skewers over an open fire, and the best place to eat them is at a beachside chiringuito. If you’re a sardine fan, let me know how they were in the comments below!
Tips for Eating Out in Malaga
Make dinner reservations! This is my biggest tip. Restaurants get VERY busy, so book ahead. A lot of the time you can walk in that morning and reserve a table for that evening, or even the next night or two. And with so many choices, having a reservation takes the stress out of deciding where to go!
Trust me! It gets a lot busier at night. I remember it being quiet throughout the day; I went back to my hotel to change clothes, and when I came back out, it was like a totally different city. People EVERYWHERE. The struggle to find food on my first night was real!
Filming Locations and Famous Faces in Malaga
You know I can’t write about a destination without talking about filming locations! It’s not a huge filming location, but for the niche few, I think this will be a great jet-setting for them.
Malaga’s biggest star is its hometown boy, Antonio Banderas, who was born here and starred in Genius: Picasso. The series filmed in Malaga’s old town, and Plaza de la Merced (where Picasso was born) is one of the most recognizable spots. Netflix’s The Snow Girl was also filmed in the city, and an episode of Black Mirror used Malaga’s old provincial prison.
Malaga Travel Tips for First-Timers
- Make dinner reservations, especially on weekends
- Download Google Maps for offline use if you don’t have an eSIM or roaming
- The old town is NOT on a grid, so give yourself extra time to get places
- Spain eats late, so don’t expect dinner at 6pm
- Bring comfy shoes for cobblestones and the climb up to the Alcazaba
- Pack sunscreen and a refillable water bottle
- Keep your bag in front of you in crowded areas
- Don’t try to plan every second… Malaga is the perfect place for slow travel
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