Best Things to Do in Málaga: Top Attractions & Hidden Gems

Malaga is an exotic coastal city in the southern part of Spain. The city is known for its intriguing history, rich culture, and incredible architecture. Malaga is an enchanting place with a wide variety of things to do and amazing places to explore for every touristy soul. It’s a paradise for those who are foodies, enjoy exploring a place’s history or love sun-kissed beaches. Once you land in this dreamy city, you will have plenty of attractions and activities to keep yourself entertained. In this detailed guide, we will help you with discovering the best things to do in Malaga so that you can have the trip of a lifetime!

1. Explore the Classic Alcazaba

A famous site in Malaga, the Alcazaba is a beautiful Moorish fortress. It was built in the 11th century and is nestled peacefully on a hill that overlooks the city. From there, you can get breathtaking views of Malaga and the scenic Mediterranean sea. The fortress is a classic display of the Islamic military architecture and has beautiful courtyards, fountains and gardens. The sophisticated archways and labyrinthine passageways add to the charm and enigma of the fortress. 

When visiting this iconic fortress, give yourself some time to explore it properly. Take a stroll through its corridors and imagine what life must have looked like back in the day. The government has done well with the restoration work, and the building still looks authentic. You will feel as though you are taking a walk in a living museum. Make sure you admire the elegance and charm of the Patio de los Naranjos (Orange Tree Courtyard), where the smell of oranges blends with the whispers of a glorious past. Exploring this place is  unarguably one of the best things to do in Malaga for history lovers.

2. Visit the Picasso Museum

As the birthplace of the famous artist Pablo Picasso, Museo Picasso Málaga is an ode to the legend. The museum is housed in the elegant Buenavista Palace which was built in the 16th-century, and showcases over 200 artworks donated by Picasso’s family. You can admire beautiful sketches, ceramics, sculptures, and paintings by the iconic artist.

There are also temporary exhibitions that you can go to. These exhibitions often rotate and give glimpses into modern art. If you want to understand the artworks properly, there are audio guides and guided tours that you can take. This exquisite museum is one of a kind and exploring it is definitely one of the best things to do in Malaga for connoisseurs of art!

3. Unwind at La Malagueta Beach

La Malagueta is an exotic beach located just a walk from the city centre. It’s a very popular beach. It has beautiful golden sands, a romantic promenade lined with palm trees and refreshing crystal clear waters. If you love sunbathing, swimming or just want to relax and unwind, La MMalagueta is the perfect place for you. There are several amenities at this beach. You’ll have showers, loungers, volleyball courts, and lifeguards to keep you safe. 

There are also a number of chiringuitos at the beach. These are local eateries that offer exotic seafood. Try the famous espeto de sardinas which is a delicious local dish that has sardines skewered and roasted over open fires. Sip on refreshing cold sangria and just relax and enjoy the vibe of the beach. 

4. Admire the Historic City Center

The famous and historic city centre of Malaga is a beautiful blend of the classic old and the lively, modern new. Start your visit with the Málaga Cathedral. It was nicknamed La Manquita (the one-armed lady) because it has one of its towers incomplete. It has an incredibly beautiful Renaissance-Baroque facade. The breathtaking interiors are architectural marvels and would leave you enchanted with its beauty. 

Take a nostalgic walk through the cobblestone streets and stop at Plaza de la Merced. It is a vibrant square that is almost always swarmed by the locals and street performers. There is also Calle Larios, which is a shopping street. It has several upscale boutiques and exquisite artisan shops belonging to the locals along with nice and cozy cafes. 

5. Discover the Beauty of El Palo

Located away from the hustle and bustle of the city, El Palo is a traditional fishing neighborhood. If you want to experience the authentic side of Malaga, this is the perfect spot. You will get to see the picturesque sight of locals living their daily lives with fishermen tending to their nets, families enjoying their meals by the sea. The beach is not very crowded and the whole vibe is peaceful. 

The main part is the food! Go to a local beachfront restaurant and order espeto de sardinas or grilled octopus. It is absolutely delicious and is often cooked in traditional boats that are converted into open-fire grills. The seafood here is scrumptious and cheaper than in central Malaga.

6. Enjoy the Vibe at Muelle Uno and the Port

An amazing modern waterfront promenade, Muelle Uno offers fine dining, exquisite shops for those who love shopping, and various options for entertainment with breathtaking sea views. It is lined with beautiful palm trees and is a popular spot for tourists and locals. The old port transformed into a modern hub is an amazing sight to witness. 

When visiting this place, also explore the Centre Pompidou Malaga. This is the only part of the famous Parisian museum that is located outside France. The museum displays exquisite artworks. All in all, open-air concerts, evening walks and a lively vibe make Muelle Uno a great place to visit. 

7. Enjoy a Day Trip to Caminito del Rey

Dubbed one of the world’s most thrilling walks, Caminito del Rey is a narrow cliffside path built into the steep walls of a gorge near El Chorro. Once considered the most dangerous walkway in the world, it has since been fully restored and is now safe for adventurous visitors.

The trail spans nearly 8 kilometers, offering breathtaking views of the Guadalhorce River, dramatic cliffs, and lush valleys. Suspended walkways and glass observation platforms add to the thrill. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a memorable outdoor experience, Caminito del Rey is a must-do.

8. Visit the Automobile and Fashion Museum

A hidden treasure in Malaga, the Museo Automovilístico y de la Moda displays the classic combination of vintage cars and high-end fashion. There are over 90 classic cars in the museum. From the magnificent Bugattis to luxurious Rolls-Royces, these cars  paired with fashion articles from the corresponding era will leave you nostalgic and mesmerized. 

From the iconic dresses from the 1920s to the famous couture gowns from the 1960s, these amazing articles of clothing from the era gone by are displayed alongside the classic automobiles. The museum displays the popular style of that era and is a unique fusion of the beauty of automobiles and the elegance of fine fashion. This museum will appeal to both fashion lovers and car enthusiasts. 

9. Explore Montes de Málaga Natural Park

Offering a quiet, green retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Montes de Málaga Natural Park is located just a short drive away from the city centre. The park is nestled in the Andalusian countryside and covers an area of over 4,900 hectares. There are beautiful pine forests, ravines and scenic streams making it an amazing place for those who love hiking, mountain biking and bird watching. For those who love nature, visiting this park is one of the best things to do in Malaga. 

There are various trails ranging from lower to higher difficult winding through the park. These trails offer beautiful panoramic views of the city and the picturesque coastline. Enjoy the authentic local dishes like plato de los montes at one of the ventas. 

10. Visit the English Cemetery

It is the oldest cemetery in mainland Spain, and is a serene resting place which was founded in 1831. It is nestled amidst the verdant nature with tall trees and blooming flowers adding to its soothing vibe. 

It is where several famous personalities including British author Gerald Brenan were laid to rest. There are also amazing cultural events and guided tours that are organized here. These events give interesting insights into the lives of Malaga’s international residents over the centuries.

11. Explore the Atarazanas Market

The centre of Malaga’s culinary scene, Mercado Central de Atarazanas is a vibrant market that is housed in a historical building built in the 19th century. The market is unique in that its building has a colourful window with stained-glass which depicts scenes of Malaga’s history. 

Once you step inside the buildings, you will see a wide variety of stalls selling exotic seafood, fresh produce in every season, cured meats, local cheeses, spices and olives. Inside, you’ll find an array of stalls selling fresh seafood, seasonal produce, cured meats, local cheeses, spices, and olives. Enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the exotic bars in the market and join the locals for a tapa. 

12. Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens (La Concepción)

One of the most breathtaking and diverse gardens in Europe, the La Concepción Historical-Botanical Gardens were built in the 19th century by a couple who loved a diverse variety of plants. There are over 2000 varieties of plants from across 5 continents that will leave you awestruck with their beauty and enigma. 

There are fascinating palm groves and exotic tropical plants. Follow winding paths past waterfalls and various stunning plants and let yourself relax in the arms of nature. There’s a romantic pergola walk, the historical mansion, and the mirador (viewpoint) with panoramic views of Malaga that are some of the major highlights of this place. It is a serene spot and exploring it is one of the best things to do in Malaga for nature lovers. 

13. Visit the Russian Museum Collection

Nestled in the historical Tabacalera building, the Russian Museum Collection in Málaga offers exquisite exhibitions that rotate annually and displays centuries of amazing Russian art that includes the famous works by Kandinsky, Repin, and Malevich. This museum is the only branch of the State Russian Museum in St. Petersburg. 

Offering profound insights in the history of Russia and the evolution of art in the country, the museum’s exhibitions are often accompanied by multimedia presentations and temporary exhibitions.

14. Watch a Flamenco Show at Kelipé

An iconic venue where you can watch soulful performances that will leave you overwhelmed with emotions, Kelipé Centro de Arte Flamenco offers art performances in a close-up setting. The passion, rhythm and the intensity with which the dances, songs and guitarists will leave you awestruck. 

The shows here display the deep roots of Andalusian flamenco culture and the city’s love of authentic art forms. A visit to this place will leave you with unforgettable memories of an artistic night. 

Conclusion

Malaga is a very unique city. The city has historic landmarks, beautiful golden beaches, hidden neighbourhoods and delicious cuisine. It offers an amazing fusion of tradition and modernity. From relaxing by the sea, exploring its intriguing history or feasting on its delicious authentic dishes, Malaga offers a lot to do and experience. This comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Malaga will help you unravel the exciting things that this gem of a city has to offer. So pack your bags, make your bookings and finalize your itinerary and get ready for the experience of a lifetime!