How To Spend A Day In Malaga, Spain
Welcome to Málaga, a radiant Andalusian city where ancient history blends with modern Mediterranean life. Located on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Málaga offers more than just beaches—think Moorish fortresses, contemporary art museums, palm-lined promenades, and a thriving food scene that goes on for miles. Our time here was brief since our cruise ship was only import for a day, but I found Málaga to be a place that can offer the perfect mix of culture, sunshine, and soulful connection.
This guide includes everything you need to plan for a day or a week in Málaga, from navigating transportation to discovering the lesser-known gems that can elevate your experience. Since shorter trips are common due to the city being a busy cruise ship port, it’s important to prioritize and make sure to plan ahead to make the most out of your time here. It’s difficult to get a feel for any city in just one day, but we racked up 20 miles on foot so I feel good about our effort!
Malaga at a Glance
Language:
Spanish (Andalusian dialect)
Currency:
Euro
Time Zone:
Central European Time (GMT+1)
Walkability:
Excellent in city center
Electricity
230V, Type C & F plugs
Best Time to Visit:
April - June, Sept & October
What You Need To Know Before Visiting Malaga
Essential Planning Tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, and Caminito del Rey (day trip).
- Embrace a slower pace – the local lifestyle encourages lingering over meals and afternoon breaks.
- Prepare for late meals – lunch typically starts at 2 PM and dinner closer to 9 PM.
- Carry cash – many small shops still prefer it.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes – Malaga’s charm is best discovered on foot.
Cultural Etiquette
Málaga has seen a big tourism boom over the last decade, especially with cruise ships, digital nomads, and low-cost airlines bringing people to the Costa del Sol. While the city welcomes visitors warmly (Andalusians are known for its laid-back, friendly vibe), here are a few things you should be keep in mind as a tourist here:
Respect the Local Pace — Life moves slower here, with late meals and afternoon breaks, so embrace the relaxed vibe.
Be Mindful in Residential Areas — Keep noise down and avoid littering, especially in neighborhoods where people actually live.
Support Local Businesses — Skip the chains and tourist traps in favor of family-run tapas bars, markets, and shops.
Be Beach-Savvy — Clean up after yourself, keep the music low, and share the sand respectfully.
Respect Cultural Sites — Appreciate the history, dress appropriately, and avoid treating sacred spots like photo ops.
Be Aware of Overtourism — Understand that tourism affects housing and daily life here, so choose ethical stays and experiences when you can.
- Tipping isn’t mandatory but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated.
Eat
I’m not a foodie, but I’ll always try desserts. After walking 44,000 steps, I ate every one of these churros!
History + Culture
Did you even visit a European city if you didn’t check out their main cathedral? Also home to a world-famous organ.
Get A View
Want a bird’s eye view of the city? Climb to the top of the Castillo de Gibralfaro. Summer visitors – Go early!
How To Get Around Malaga
Public Transportation
Málaga’s public transport is simple but effective:
- Bus: EMT buses cover the city well, including beaches and neighborhoods outside the center.
- Metro: A small but growing metro system—mostly used by locals.
- Train: The Cercanías train connects the airport and nearby coastal towns.
Other Transportation Options
- Walking: The historic center is compact and mostly pedestrian-only.
- Bicycles and Scooters: Easy to rent and great for exploring the seafront.
- Taxis: Taxis: Readily available and affordable.
- Ride-sharing: Uber and Bolt are both active in Málaga.
Getting To and From the Airport
| Option | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cercanías Train | 12-15 minutes | €2.30 | Fast, frequent, connects to city center |
| Bus A Express | 20-25 minutes | €4.00 | Direct to city, runs every 30 minutes |
| Taxi | 15-20 minutes | €20-25 | Fixed fare from airport to center |
Where to Stay in Malaga
Málaga offers a variety of charming neighborhoods, each with a distinct vibe:
Centro Histórico (Historic Center)
The lively heart of Málaga filled with tapas bars, museums, and historical sites.
Perfect for: First-timers, culture lovers
Pros: Central, atmospheric, walkable
Cons: Can be noisy, especially on weekends
Soho Málaga
The artsy district known for street art, galleries, and alternative cafes.
Perfect for: Creatives, younger travelers
Pros: Cool vibe, near the port and center
Cons: Limited accommodation options
La Malagueta
Beachfront area near the bullring and port.
Perfect for: Beach lovers
Pros: Great views, near the water
Cons: Less nightlife, more touristy
Pedregalejo / El Palo
Traditional fishing neighborhoods east of the city.
Perfect for: Authentic local experience
Pros: Fewer tourists, great seafood
Cons: Farther from main attractions
Accommodation Options
| Type | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Boutique Hotels | €€€ | Couples, stylish stays |
| Apartments | €€ | Families, longer visits, independent travelers |
| Hostels | € | Solo travelers, social vibes |
| Guesthouses | €-€€ | Budget-conscious, quieter lodging |
What to Do in Malaga
Must-See Attractions
- Alcazaba – A Moorish fortress with gardens and panoramic views
- Gibralfaro Castle – Overlooks the city and sea, worth the climb. *Go EARLY in summer, gets crowded and hot!
- Picasso Museum – Málaga is Picasso’s birthplace and this museum is a must for art lovers
- Catedral de la Encarnación – Known as “La Manquita” (the one-armed lady) for its unfinished second tower. The Santa Iglesia Catedral Basilica de la Encarnacion is home to one of the largest organs in the world, and the architecture really is stunning. But we were disappointed after paying the 10€ entrance fee that as of the date of May 2024, they no longer allowed roof access.
- Teatro Romano – Ruins right in the middle of the city. You can do a tour, or see them for free just by walking through this area.
- Beach – If you’re looking for the sign pictured below, you can just type in “Malagueta sign” and it shows up in Google maps.
Off the Beaten Path
- Cervantes Theatre – Catch a flamenco performance or concert
- Baños del Carmen – Rustic beachfront bar with sunset views
- CAC Málaga (Contemporary Art Center) – Free entry and thought-provoking exhibits
- Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción – An escape on the edge of the city. We walked all the way to the botanical gardens, but unless that’s a main draw for you, I’d skip it.
Day Trips from Málaga
- Caminito del Rey
MUST HAVE TICKETS IN ADVANCE. Dramatic cliffside walk through a gorge. Not for the faint of heart, but breathtaking.
Distance: 1 hour by train or tour - Nerja
Cute coastal town with turquoise coves and the famous Nerja Caves.
Distance: 1 hour by bus - Ronda
A stunning mountaintop town famous for its dramatic gorge and historic bridge.
Distance: 2 hours by train or car
Food and Drink Experiences
Must-Try Local Specialties
Espeto de Sardinas – Grilled sardines on a stick, a Málaga beach classic
Gazpachuelo – A warm fish soup with mayo and potatoes
Fritura Malagueña – Assorted fried fish, served by the sea
Ajoblanco – Cold almond-garlic soup, often topped with grapes
Tarta Malagueña – Almond and raisin cake flavored with local sweet wine
Where to Eat
Markets
Mercado Central de Atarazanas – For fresh fruit, seafood, and local specialties
Mercado de Salamanca – Smaller, neighborhood vibe
Dining Culture
Tapas are meant to be shared slowly
Late dining is the norm (lunch around 2 PM, dinner at 9 PM or later)
Many places offer affordable menu del día options at lunch
Expert Travel Tips
Safety and Well-being
- Keep valuables in front pockets or hidden pouches
- Be wary of common scams (friendly strangers offering help, fake petitions)
- Stay hydrated, especially during summer months
- Apply sunscreen regularly – the Mediterranean sun is stronger than it feels
- Take breaks in shaded plazas when sightseeing during hot weather
Money-Saving Tips
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Free Sundays | Most museums are free after 4 PM on Sundays |
| Menu del Día | Best lunch deal in town |
| Self-catering | Markets make it easy to prepare simple fresh meals |
| Tap Water | Safe and free—bring a reusable bottle |
Map Of Things To Do In Malaga
