ENJOY OUR HOTELS IN MALAGA

LEISURE AND CULTURE

• WHICH ARE THE BEST BEACHES IN MALAGA?

  The beaches in Malaga are famous for their turquoise waters, striking landscapes, beach bars and romantic sunsets. There are a wide variety of beaches, each one offering something unique that sets it apart from any other. And with 320 days of sun a year, there is no better plan than to explore the picturesque beaches and coves of Costa del Sol. 

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    Bil-Bil Beach, Benalmádena

    Located right in the centre of Benalmádena the soft sandy beach of Bil-Bil is named after the zone’s famous castle. The beach is ideally located by the scenic boardwalk and boasts incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea and landscape.

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    Artola – Cabopino Beach, Marbella

    Known as one of the best beaches in Costa del Sol, this beach includes a protected area known as the Artola sand dunes. Surrounded by pure nature with very little buildings, it’s exquisite landscape and pleasant waters make it a great place to soak up the sun and swim. It is a great beach for families.

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    La Malagueta Beach, Malaga

    Located in the city of Malaga near its port, this spacious blue flag beach is a popular point of interest especially due to its name being written in big letters, making it a great place for pictures. In addition, it boasts spectacular views of the sea and mountains, along with a variety of beach bars and services.

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    Bajondillo Beach – Playamar, Torremolinos

    Located in the town of Torremolinos, Playamar is a 1km stretch of beach offering a variety of services that include shops, restaurants and beach bars where you can enjoy the typical fried fish of Andalusia.

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    Puerto Banus Beach, Marbella

    Also known as Rio Verde, this glamorous beach in Marbella boasts warm gentle waters along with many services and activities, making it perfect for families with children. The beach is close to the port, as well as a number of exclusive boutique shops, bars, restaurants and Boulevard de la Fama or golden mile.

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    Calahonda Beach, Nerja

    Situated in the town of Nerja and under the Balcón de Europa this small but magical beach is famous for its turquoise waters and dark grey sand. It is close to the centre of Nerja, but also offers a wide variety of services such as loungers, showers and beach bars.
• WHAT ARE THE BEST EXCURSIONS IN MALAGA?

  The province of Malaga and, more specifically, Costa del Sol offer some of the most well-known excursions in the south of Spain. From natural phenomena to rich cultural and historical sites where you can admire unique architecture from a diverse variety of different societies, here is our list of excursions that you cannot miss while visiting Malaga.

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    El Caminito del Rey Path

    Formerly known as one of the most dangerous routes in the world, the now safely reconstructed 7.7 km path tucked into the mountains of the Malaga province boasts spectacular sights set in pure nature. Relish in its panoramic views that will leave you speechless, from its boardwalks, forest trails and its famous hanging bridges that are over 100 metres up on cliff. Be sure to take good walking shoes and your camera!

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    The caves of Nerja

    Discover the natural phenomenon of Costa del Sol, hidden in the largest caves of Andalusia. Explore this magical place and you’ll find the largest column in the world, combining a stalactite with a stalagmite. The site is also home to cave paintings dating back to 25,000 and 3,600 BC, as well as the yearly Nerja International Festival of Music and Dance. Known as one of the most visited attractions in the Malaga province, they are truly a unique experience. Combine your visit to the caves with the spectacular beaches and charming town of Nerja for an unforgettable daytrip.

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    Malaga’s Alcazaba

    When visiting the city of Malaga, you cannot miss its impressive Moorish fortress, standing high up on top of Mount Gibralfaro. Its towering walls date back to the eleventh century and were built by a Berber king to defend the citadel from attacks. Connected to the Alcazaba is the Gibralfaro Castle, which can also be visited and boasts beautiful gardens, courtyards and ponds.

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    Boat excursions in Malaga

    Discover the beauty of Malaga and Costa del Sol from a completely different point of view. One of the best ways to appreciate the zone’s exquisite landscape and the Mediterranean Sea is by boat. Enjoy a boat ride from the ports of Benalmádena or Malaga city. Turn the experience into an excursion and explore other costal towns such as Nerja, Marbella or Estepona.

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    Estepona

    Although one of the most visited towns of Costa del Sol, Estepona has be able to maintain a unique essence and authenticity, making it a truly charming place to visit. Get lost in old quarter, full of white washed streets covered in flowerpots and plants bursting with colour. Soak up the sun on its 23 km coast and explore its 15 beaches which include the famous Del Cristo beach. And of course, be sure to try the town’s delicious cuisine at its many restaurants and beach bars, known for their smoked fish and seafood dishes.

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    Frigiliana

    Visit the most talked about white town of the Malaga province. Located in the northern part of Costa del Sol about 7 km from Nerja, Frigiliana is often referred to as the most beautiful village of the Axarquía zone. Get carried away by its picturesque scenery: whitewashed buildings, narrow streets adorned with vibrant flowers and the majestic mountains in the background. The old town centre maintains the essence of its Moorish past, boasting some of the most well-preserved Arabic architecture in Malaga.
• WHERE TO HAVE FUN IN MALAGA?

  Malaga has a diverse entertainment and nightlife offer, boasting a rich local culture with numerous traditional festivals and holidays. From Malaga’s always vibrant city centre to the exclusive restaurant and bar scene of Puerto Banus in Marbella, you will never get bored no matter what time of year you travel. 

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    Malaga’s fair

    Beginning with fireworks on La Malagueta beach, this 7 day and night celebration features parades, processions, bands, live music and day fairs with huge tents. By night, explore the Cortijo de Torres amusement park, along with live concerts, flamenco dancing and a variety of booths offering Malaga’s most tempting local bites.

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    Tivoli World amusement park (Benalmádena)

    With a history of over 30 million visitors this legendary park, made by the creators of Tivoli World of Copenhagen, is one of the largest in Andalusia and hosts over 40 rides and attractions. Carnival games, shows, concerts, restaurants and shops are only a few of the activities available, including a 60-metre free fall tower and giant roller coaster.

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    Puerto Banus, Marbella

    From high end restaurants to glamorous stores with the most exclusive brands, Marbella’s port is a symbol of international luxury. Spend the day on a yacht or get lost in its surrounding streets while driving an extravagant car. Full of bars, night clubs and an array of entertainment options, Puerto Banus is a must-do for any Malaga holiday.

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    Water parks in Malaga

    What better way to cool off from the hot Andalusian sun than by sliding down into a pool at one of Malaga’s famous water parks? Feel the refreshing breeze as you jump into the pools of any of its 3 parks: Aqualand Torremolinos, Aquavelis Parque Acuático and Aquamijas. And for those that love the thrill but don’t want to leave the beach, you’re in luck! Enjoy water slides that are set up directly in the sea at various beaches on Malaga’s coast, including Benalmádena.

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    Golfing in Malaga

    Malaga´s Costa del Sol is a Mecca for golfers! With over 50 golf courses in just the province, it’s no wonder the area is often referred to as “Costa del Golf,” boasting the highest concentration for golf courses in all of Europe. Each course features something unique, from stunning scenery, sea views to exclusive services and facilities. Some of our favourites include Benalmádena Golf, Parador de Málaga Golf and Real Club de Golf de Málaga.

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    Going out in Malaga

    From Malaga city centre to its surrounding towns and villages, there is absolutely no lack of nightlife in this vibrant zone. Enjoy a night out in pure Andalusian style. Bar or club hop in the centre of Malaga’s capital, where you will find unique places in every corner. The historic centre, the El Palo area and the Pedregalejo quarter will guarantee you a fun night out in the city. As for Malaga’s towns, you’ll find a lively atmosphere on the coast, such as in Marbella, Torremolinos and Benalmádena.
• WHAT TO EAT IN MALAGA?

  They say that the best way to get to know a culture is through its cuisine. And in the case of Malaga, this could not be more correct. From savoury tapas in its bars to fresh fish grilled at its beach restaurants, there is certainly no lack of flavour and variety in the zone’s gastronomy. In addition, it also boasts an abundance of fresh seafood, along with other ingredients. So, regardless of what part of the province you are in, on your next holiday get ready to taste this vibrant culture, bite by bite and sip by sip! 

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    Smoked fish and sardines

    A gastronomical experience in Malaga is not complete without trying the famous smoked sardines and fish, known as sardinas y pescado espetado in Spanish . Watch in awe as this tasty treat is cooked right in front of you at one of its beach bars, also known as chiringuitos.

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    Fried fish

    Due to is coastal location and wide variety of seafood, Malaga is a fish lover’s paradise. The star dish of the area is boquerones fritos (fried anchovies). However, any type of fried seafood dishes can be devoured at any of its restaurants, beach bars and tapa joints: calamari, baby calamari, tiny fried fish, red mullet and dogfish, just to name a few.

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    Malaga’s magical tapas

    Inspired by the zone’s most popular dishes, Malaga’s tapas will amaze your eyes and your taste buds. Enjoy fried fish tapas, known as pescaito frito, as well as decadent meats, vegetables and cheeses. Some the most popular include garlic grilled shrimp (gamas al ajilo) and shrimp with pipirrana spice, a delicious infusion of tomato, onion and red and green pepper, dressed with extra virgin olive oil. Another delicious option is the exquisite meat or fish meatballs drenched in Malaga’s famous almond sauce. And finally, for a simple yet classic tapa, you can never go wrong with a tortilla de patata, a savoury Spanish omelette.

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    White garlic soup (ajoblanco)

    An ideal starter especially during the hotter months, this refreshing soup is served cold, much like the famous gazpacho. Made of chopped raw peeled almonds, garlic, bread crumbs, vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, water and a touch of salt, this renowned dish is often accompanied by green grapes or a slice of melon and served with shredded greens on top.

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    Conchas finas

    A delicacy typical to the Costa del Sol, this clam-like mollusk has a white and orange tinted flesh. It is often cooked savoury sauce, such as the spicy pil pil sauce or with the famous white garlic soup (ajoblanco). It can even be used as an ingredient for ceviche. Regardless, for most locals the best way to eat it is all- natural: cooked with a few drops of lemon and some pepper.

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    Wine in Malaga

    Whether you prefer a wine sampling, pairing or a visit to a winery, in Malaga wine lovers have it all. The province boasts two denominated wine types typical to the zone: D.O Málaga and D.O Sierras de Málaga. Malaga’s capital is known for its sweet wines, which fall into the D.O Málaga category. This category also contains liquor wines, often made with Moscatel or Pedro Ximénez. On the other hand, the D.O Sierras wines are often smooth white, rose or red wines, which are mostly made in the wineries of Serranía de Rhonda.
• WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MALAGA?
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    Cultural Experiences

    Malaga is full of museums and historical sites bursting with culture. In the capital, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro castle are some of the city’s oldest sites. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and Costa del Sol. Travel through time at Malaga’s Roman theatre, where you’ll find a variety of archaeological remains. And for art lovers, a trip to the Pompidou or Carmen Thyssen museums, as well as the Museum of Malaga, cannot be missed. From fine arts by renown artists such as Pablo Picasso to historical remains, you’ll be amazed by all the cultural offered in this rich city.

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    Visit charming villages

    With all the hustle and bustle of the city, the villages of Malaga’s province provide a nice break. Visit the coastal towns of Costa del Sol, where you’ll enjoy spectacular beaches, along with charming village streets full of restaurants, bars and shops. Some of the most famous towns on the coast are Marbella, Nerja, Estepona, Benalmádena, Fuengirola, Torremolinos and San Pedro de Alcántar. And if you love the mountains, Malaga also has a variety of unique villages that are inland, such as Ronda, Antequera, Frigiliana and Mijas to name a few. Enjoy unique hiking routes with unforgettable views and then retreat back to town to recharge with a hardy country meal bursting with flavours typical to the zone’s local gastronomy.

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    Routes and hikes

    Malaga isn’t just about the beach. Take a break from the sun and sand, escape to the mountains and explore some of Spain’s best routes for hiking. Breathe in the fresh countryside air as you discover nature reserves and parks. For those daring enough to hike the entire province, Gran Senda de Malaga, also known as GR 249, crosses 57 municipalities, linking trails and countless sites to enjoy nature. Another popular hike is El Caminito del Rey, famous for its once dangerous bridges attached to the inside of a gorge. Finally, the Sierra de Nieves mountain range and the Torcal de Antequera nature reserve provide some of the most scenic landscapes in Malaga.

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    Beaches

    Without a doubt, Malaga’s beaches are one of the top attractions in the zone. From the vibrant beaches of the city centre to the scenic beaches in Costa del Sol, there is an infinite amount of coastline to visit. Covering over 150 km of the Malaga province, Costa del Sol includes a variety of beaches boasting sun for over 320 days a year. From Nerja and Naro in the east to Malaga’s city beaches, followed by Torremolinos and Benalmádena, and finally the beaches of the west, such as Marbella, Estepona and Casares. Surly, Malaga is a dream destination for beach goers around the world!

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    Nightlife

    From lively tapas bars to chiringuito beach bars and finally the night clubs, there is something for all tastes in Malaga. Enjoy the zone’s tempting cuisine with an artisanal beer or local wine in hand. Make sure to include Bodega Bar El Pimpi in your evening plans, a must-do when in Malaga’s historic centre. Or, enjoy live music and espetos (smoked sardines and fish) at Sonora Beach, an epic beach bar with a bohemian funky vibe to dance at until the sun sets. And if your plan is to enjoy Malaga’s coastal towns, there is certainly no lack of night life there either. Check out Marbella’s Puerto Banus for an elegant night out, as well the fun nightlife of Torremolinos and Benalmádena.

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    Easter week in Malaga

    Regardless of a person’s religious beliefs, Easter week in Malaga is a truly unique and interesting experience. Each day of the Holy Week, from Palm Sunday until Easter Sunday, the streets of Malaga host over 40 processions. The event is considered one of the city’s most important mass celebrations, drawing in tourists from around the world along with the locals.
• WHAT TO BUY IN MALAGA?

  Being one of the biggest capitals of Andalusia, Malaga boasts one of the largest selection of shops, malls and famous brand-name stores in Spain. A shopping offer for all tastes and preferences, whether you are in the city centre or one of the surrounding towns, you’ll be able to find anything from local goods and crafts to imported luxury products. 

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    Where to shop in Malaga?

    Malaga is a shopper’s paradise, full of boutique shops, artisan crafts, large commercial centres and malls with all the popular brands. Here, you’ll find all you that you are looking for. Discover the shops of Malaga’s centre as well as in the surrounding towns, such as in Costa del Sol. Keep reading to find out our exclusive tips on where to have the best shopping experience!

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    Calle Larios

    One of the most iconic streets in the centre of Malaga, Calle Larios is famous for its shops and lively ambiance. The 350 metres long street starts at Plaza de la Constitución and ends at Parque de la Alameda Principal. Boasting exclusive shops and popular franchises, it is even one of the 50 most expensive streets in Europe.

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    Malls and shopping centres

    Discover any of the many shopping centres in Malaga, offering leisure activities, cinemas, restaurants and often seasonal activities to give shoppers the ultimate experience. One of the most popular shopping centres is Centro Comercial Larios Centro, boasting all the brand-name stores such as Zara, Stradivarius, Massimo Dutti and Primark. Other well-known shopping centres include the Vialia Shopping Centre, Malaga’s plaza and El Corte Inglés. Finally, on the boarder of Malaga and Torremolinos, you´ll find the Plaza Mayor Shopping Centre, very close to the airport and well connected by train.

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    Shopping in Puerto Banus, Marbella

    For high-end luxury shops and boutiques there is no better place to fulfil your most extravagant desires than in Marbella’s port, Puerto Banus. Here, you´ll find all the designer brands along with unique shops featuring one-of-a-kind luxury products. Admire the exquisite yachts and sea as you cruise from shop to shop. And when it’s time for a rest, take a drink or tapa at one of the zone’s many bars or enjoy a flavoursome meal at one of its restaurants.

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    Shopping in Malaga’s port

    Apart from the spectacular views of the sea, Malaga’s port also boasts a commercial centre: Centro Comercial Muelle Uno. Created in 2011, this vibrant zone boasts numerous shops and boutiques, as well as over 30 restaurants and bars. The perfect experience for those that want to shop while enjoying the lively ambiance of the port.

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    Shopping in Benalmádena

    The coastal town of Benalmádena also offers a wide variety of shops for you to explore. From its picturesque old town to the shopping centre in its port, you’ll unique shops, as well as all the famous brands. In the centre of Benalmádena, one of the most popular places to shop is in Arroyo de la Miel, offering stores by the train station and on the main street. For the luxury brands, Puerto Marina is the place to go. Get lost in its narrow winding streets and bounce from shop to shop along the scenic harbour. Finally, you cannot miss the shops by the beach and the street markets, such as the ones located in the parking lot of Tivoli World and by the Parque de Paloma.