Things to do in Málaga

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A bustling pedestrian street lined with historic buildings and hanging flower baskets.
A coastal town with stone buildings, a paved walkway, and a beach.
A historic building with a dome and bell towers, surrounded by lush greenery and pedestrians.
A grand room with a piano, a large portrait, and a chandelier.
A beach with thatched umbrellas and green lounge chairs.

Things to do

From Málaga: Caves of Nerja, Nerja and Frigiliana Day Tour

From Málaga: Caves of Nerja, Nerja and Frigiliana Day Tour

￥12,698
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
From Málaga: Caves of Nerja, Nerja and Frigiliana Day Tour
From Malaga: Full-Day Bus Trip to Ronda and Setenil

From Malaga: Ronda and Setenil Guided Tour Day Trip

￥10,122
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
From Malaga: Ronda and Setenil Guided Tour Day Trip
Benalmadena: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

Benalmadena: Dolphin Watching Cruise & Coastal Views

￥3,681
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Benalmadena: Dolphin Watching Cruise & Coastal Views
From Málaga: Caminito del Rey Day Trip & Guided Tour

From Málaga: Caminito del Rey Day Trip & Guided Tour

￥11,097
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
From Málaga: Caminito del Rey Day Trip & Guided Tour
Picture 8 for Activity Benalmadena: Selwo Marina Admission Ticket

Benalmadena: Selwo Marina Admission Ticket

￥2,926
per adult
Benalmadena: Selwo Marina Admission Ticket
Ferry Benalmádena ↔ Fuengirola – One Way / Return

Ferry between Benalmádena and Fuengirola (One Way or Return)

￥2,576
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Ferry between Benalmádena and Fuengirola (One Way or Return)
Malaga: Catamaran Sunset or Night Cruise w/ Live DJ & Drink

Malaga: Catamaran Sunset or Night Cruise w/ Live DJ & Drink

￥5,521
per adult
Malaga: Catamaran Sunset or Night Cruise w/ Live DJ & Drink
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Málaga must see attractions

1. Port of Malaga

The Port of Málaga is one of the oldest seaports in Spain and the first stop for many visitors on a trip to the city. The port is both a transportation hub and a popular destination itself. Shop in chic malls, lounge on beaches and explore cutting-edge art galleries, all within the marina area.
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A waterfront promenade with a modern white canopy structure, palm trees, and a cruise ship docked on the right.

2. Malagueta Beach

Malagueta Beach is an ideal place to escape the city and unwind by the sea. During the high season, waterfront food vendors and busy restaurants line the shore, parents and children use the playground facilities and visitors enjoy beach activities. Stretch out on a sun lounger, walk barefoot on the sands and cool off in the calm waters.
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A beach with palm trees and people sunbathing.

3. Málaga Cathedral

This ornate and stately cathedral is known among locals as La Manquita, or “The One-Armed Lady,” because its tower was intended to be one of two. The first tower was erected to an imposing 276 feet (84 meters), but then construction ceased because the funds were sent to American troops in the War of Independence in 1780. Even without the second tower, the cathedral is grand.
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A grand cathedral interior with high vaulted ceilings, ornate columns, and stained glass windows.

4. Picasso Museum Malaga

Located in the heart of the Old Town, Museo Picasso Malaga is a monumental tribute to an exceptional local talent: Pablo Picasso. Browse the nearly 300 works by the world-famous painter and sculptor. See early 19th-century sketches of landscapes, cubist impressions and modern 20th-century portraits. While here, also admire the grand setting for the museum, the elaborate 16th-century palace called Palacio de Buenavista.
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A stone building with a sign reading "museoPICASSOMÁLAGA" and a person standing at the entrance.

5. Alcazaba of Málaga

Built between the eighth and 11th centuries this palatial fortress was named Alcazaba, the Arabic word for citadel. The military-style structure was fortified with double stone walls and tall towers, erected to see enemies approach. Take a historic journey by entering through the fortress’ magnificent gates and explore gardens, towers and patios. From the Maldonado Tower (Torre de Maldonado), you can see all the way to Africa on a clear day.
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An arched stone corridor with a wooden door and potted plants.

6. Plaza de la Merced

The Plaza de la Merced is a spacious 19th-century square in Malaga’s historic center. Lined with cafés, bars and restaurants, Plaza de la Merced really begins to buzz in the late afternoon, when visitors join the gathering locals to soak up the last rays of the sun and exchange stories. Linger on a terrace on the northern side and order tapas or coffee. Find the bronze statue of Picasso sitting on a bench and visit Picasso’s Birthplace.
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A square with a tall monument, trees, and historic buildings.

7. Gibralfaro Castle

Gibralfaro Castle is a Malaga icon and appears on the city and province’s flag and seal. The 10th-century monument with sturdy 14th-century fortifications is perched above the Moorish fortress Alcazaba in the Montes del Malaga mountain range. At the top, you can look out over the historic walls, Malaga’s port and the Mediterranean coastline.
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A coastal cityscape with a prominent cathedral, a port with cranes, and a mountain in the background.

8. Central Market of Atarazanas

The Mercado de Atarazanas is an impressive sight, a covered fresh produce market housed in an old Arabic building with a history that goes back to the 14th century. What was once a shipbuilding yard when the Moors ruled is now a market selling fresh and local products. Embark on a food shopping expedition and stay for tapas in one of the bars.
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A busy urban street with parked scooters, cars, and pedestrians.

What to do in Málaga

Stay near popular Málaga attractions

A beach with palm trees and people sunbathing.

Malagueta Beach

8.6/10 (2,837 reviews)
This golden-sand urban beach lies just steps from Málaga's historic center. Relax with Mediterranean views, then sample traditional espetos at beachside chiringuitos where grilled sardines are a local delicacy.
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Where to stay in Málaga

Find the best Málaga areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Málaga
Learn more about Málaga
A city skyline at dusk with a prominent Ferris wheel, a large domed building, and a calm river reflecting the lights.

Málaga Centro

Port of Malaga and Malagueta Beach are a few top attractions in Málaga Centro. Hop around the city on the metro at La Marina Station or La Malagueta Station and check out the area's fantastic nightlife, stunning cathedral, and captivating waterfront views.

A coastal cityscape with a prominent bullring, high-rise buildings, a marina with yachts, and a clear view of the sea.

La Malagueta

Pristine beaches, ample dining options, and captivating waterfront views are just a few things travelers love about La Malagueta. Sights like Malagueta Beach and Muelle Uno are top spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Málaga area at La Malagueta Station.

A beach with a rocky breakwater, clear blue sky, and calm sea.

Pedregalejo Playa

If you're spending some time in Pedregalejo Playa, Playa de Pedregalejo and Las Acacias Beach are top sights worth seeing.

A beach with colorful boats and a clear blue sky.

Pedregalejo

If you're spending time in Pedregalejo, you might enjoy its beaches and restaurants. If you've got time to venture a little farther, you can make a stop by Playa de Pedregalejo or Banos del Carmen Beach.

A formal garden with a central water feature, symmetrical hedges, and a classical building in the background.

Ensanche Centro

While you're in Ensanche Centro, take in top sights like Soho and jump on the metro at La Marina Station to see more of the city.

Popular day trips from Málaga

A narrow street lined with colorful buildings, outdoor seating, and various shops and restaurants.

Torremolinos

A coastal town with a rocky shoreline, a pier extending into the sea, and a prominent tower in the distance.

Rincon de la Victoria

Frequently asked questions

Is Málaga worth visiting?
Whether you're here to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or sample unique foods and explore in nature, there are many things to do in Málaga.
How do I spend a day in Málaga?
Malagueta Beach and Bajondillo Beach are two awesome places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to check out the retail and dining options in Málaga while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Málaga?
Don't go home without checking out Malagueta Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Málaga.
Is three days enough to stay in Málaga?
You can easily enjoy popular sights like Malagueta Beach, Málaga Cathedral and Picasso Museum Malaga with a three-day break in Málaga. On average, most travelers book three days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Marbella.
Is Málaga a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Málaga. Several top sights, like Malagueta Beach and Málaga Cathedral, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Málaga's neighborhoods, Málaga Centro is 0.64 kilometers away from downtown, while Malaga Historic Centre is 0.16 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Málaga with kids?
If you're looking for sights and tours for all the family, check out these great ideas for what to do in Málaga with kids.

What to do in Málaga for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Málaga for adults including Jose Maria Martin Carpena Arena and Cortijo de Torres Municipal Auditorium.
Are there free things to do in Málaga?
In Málaga, Malagueta Beach is a top spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a great way to explore the best free things to do in Málaga.

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