Málaga – 12 Attractions for Your Trip to the Costa del Sol

Located in southern Spain in the region of Andalusia, the vibrant city of Málaga is a popular destination, thanks in part to its stunning location on the Costa del Sol, meaning “Coast of the Sun”. Surrounded by impressive hills and picturesque, golden sandy beaches, Málaga enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, making it the perfect destination for culture enthusiasts, city fans, and those looking for relaxation alike.

In this guide, you’ll discover the 12 must-see attractions in Málaga and get plenty of helpful tips for your stay.

1. THE RUINS OF CASTILLO DE GIBRALFARO

High above the city, atop Mount Gibralfaro, lie the impressive ruins of the Moorish Castillo de Gibralfaro.
Built in the 14th century by the Moors, this fortress with its eight towers was designed to protect the nearby Alcazaba.
Its strategic location provides a clear advantage: from the castle walls, you’ll enjoy what’s likely the best panoramic view of Málaga and its surrounding landscape.
Walking along the castle walls and exploring Castillo de Gibralfaro is an absolute must-see!

To reach the entrance of Castillo de Gibralfaro, you have several options.
A convenient choice is to take a taxi or Bus No. 35, which drops you off near the entrance – especially welcome during the hot summer months.

For those preferring a more active route, there’s a 25-minute hike along the castle walls, beginning next to the Alcazaba entrance.
The path is somewhat steep in places, so sturdy shoes are highly recommended.

The ascent is especially rewarding due to the many viewpoints along the way.
The most famous is the Mirador de Gibralfaro, where you can take in the sea, the Plaza de Toros de la Malagueta, and Málaga’s harbor.

A great advantage: The path is accessible any time of day, so you can also visit at night to enjoy stunning views of illuminated Málaga.

Our tip: Visit Castillo de Gibralfaro in the early morning to avoid the midday heat and tourist crowds.
This way, you’ll have a peaceful experience and can enjoy the magnificent views over the city.

The Castillo de Gibralfaro ruins are open from April to October daily from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, and from November to March from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Tickets can be purchased at the onsite kiosk.

2. THE ALCAZABA

After visiting Castillo de Gibralfaro, a gentle descent brings you to the entrance of Alcazaba, one of Málaga’s most important landmarks.
This fortress was constructed in the 11th century by King Badis and was intended to be a palace similar to Granada’s famous Alhambra.
Although this plan was never fully realized, you can see certain architectural similarities.

The entrance to the Alcazaba is right next to the Roman Theater, whose stones were used by the Moors in building the fortress.
A cobblestone path, which is rather steep in parts, leads along the imposing walls and through a picturesque setting of fig trees and lush greenery to the fortress’s interior.
Inside, you’ll find well-kept gardens with vibrant flowers, and you can climb sections of the fortress wall via steps.
Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views over the city’s rooftops.

The Alcazaba is open from April to October daily from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, and from November to March from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased directly at the ticket machine.

Good to know: As the path is made of rough cobblestone, we highly recommend sturdy shoes for a comfortable and safe ascent.

3. THE ROMAN THEATER

As mentioned, the Teatro Romano is located right next to the Alcazaba entrance, at the heart of Málaga’s cultural center.
Built at the beginning of the 1st century under Emperor Augustus, the Roman Theater served as a venue for cultural performances for around 200 years before it was abandoned.

In the 8th century, the Moors discovered the theater and used parts of it to build the neighboring Alcazaba.
Many ancient elements, such as columns and stones, were incorporated into the doors and steps of the Alcazaba, creating a unique blend of Roman and Moorish architecture.
After the Alcazaba was completed, the Roman Theatre fell into oblivion once again and continued to deteriorate until it was rediscovered in 1951 and eventually opened to the public.

The Teatro Romano can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. Entry is free of charge.

4. MÁLAGA CATHEDRAL

The majestic Cathedral of Málaga, officially known as the Basilica of the Incarnation, is visible from nearly every viewpoint in the city.
Locals affectionately call it “La Manquita” (meaning “The One-Armed Lady”) because its second tower was never completed due to lack of funds.
However, we didn’t mind – the existing tower stands tall at 87 meters, making it the highest church tower in Andalusia.

Due to the long construction period, the architecture of the cathedral reflects a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
Inside, highlights include the semicircular altar from 1541 and an impressive dome.

One unique feature is the cathedral’s rooftop, accessible by climbing 200 steps.
Unlike other churches, you’ll be standing directly on the roof structure rather than in a tower, providing a stunning 360° view of the city and coast.

The cathedral is open from April to June and October from Monday to Friday between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm.
From July to September, it’s open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, and from November to March, from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm. Tickets are available online or at the entrance.

OUR ACCOMMODATION TIP

Our accommodation, Chinitas Urban Aparments, is located right in the center – you can’t get more central than this. The spacious apartment has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Although we didn’t use the kitchen, as there are numerous cafes and restaurants nearby, we’ll definitely stay here again if we return to Málaga.

5. MÁLAGA’S HARBOR PROMENADE (MUELLE UNO)

Next, head toward the harbor (Muelle Uno), located just five minutes on foot from the old town and the Cathedral of Málaga.
A few years ago, the harbor was simply a docking area for ships and boats – hard to imagine today.
The futuristic promenade of Muelle Uno is now a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

The harbor area is divided into two sections. The Muelle 2 Promenade begins right behind the old town and runs beneath the white roof structure of the Palmeral de las Sorpresas.
This area is lined with numerous restaurants and bars, complemented by seating where you can enjoy the waterfront view and listen to street musicians.

Muelle 2 ends at the Centre Pompidou Málaga, where Muelle 1 begins. The Muelle 1 promenade also features numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops, stretching all the way to the La Farola de Málaga lighthouse. From this side of the promenade, you’ll have a beautiful view of Málaga’s city center.
‍Every Sunday, a small market is held on Muelle 1, where you can find handicrafts and various regional products.

The pier is also where boat tours depart. We took a 60-minute catamaran tour along the coast.
During the sunny trip, we were able to see Málaga from the water as well. You can find the tour here.

Our tip: Just behind the harbor promenade, you’ll find Paseo del Parque, a promenade lined with palm trees and lush green plants. A stroll here is especially lovely in the evening hours.

6. CENTRE POMPIDOU MÁLAGA

Art lovers, take note: Centre Pompidou Málaga, a branch of the famous Centre Pompidou in Paris, is a must-see in Málaga, located right on the harbor promenade.
Beneath the colorful glass cube, known as El Cubo, you’ll find masterpieces from artists worldwide displayed across two underground floors since its opening in 2015.

The permanent exhibition is refreshed every two years with loans from the Parisian motherhouse, ensuring a dynamic, diverse experience.
The museum also hosts frequent special exhibitions and events.

Centre Pompidou Málaga is open daily (except Tuesdays) from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.

7. LA MALAGUETA BULLRING

The Plaza de Toros de La Malagueta is one of Málaga’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1874, this bullring can accommodate around 9,000 spectators who can still witness traditional Spanish bullfights.

Alongside the arena, there are stables for bulls and horses, a butcher shop, a medical station, and a museum that offers insight into the history and tradition of bullfighting.

Photo Tip: The best views of the arena are from the Mirador de Gibralfaro or from the walls of Castillo de Gibralfaro.

The Plaza de Toros de La Malagueta is open for visits from Monday to Friday, between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. Tickets are available at the entrance.

8. PICASSO MUSEUM

Málaga is the birthplace of one of the most influential and celebrated artists in history, Pablo Picasso.
Though he only spent the first ten years of his life in the city, it seems fitting that Málaga has a museum dedicated to his work.

Founded in 2003 with the help of Picasso’s family, the Picasso Museum quickly became a popular attraction. Its permanent collection spans two floors and features around 200 paintings, drawings, and sculptures that illustrate Picasso’s artistic and personal development. Some pieces come from the private collection of Picasso’s daughter-in-law and grandson.

Notable works include “Restaurante” (1914), “La Siesta” (1932), and the iconic “Cabeza de Toro” bronze sculpture from 1942, crafted from a bicycle seat and handlebars.

The Picasso Museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, and tickets are available for purchase online or at the entrance. Entry is free two hours before closing on Sundays.

Since we personally don’t have much interest in classical art, we found the museum rather boring. If you feel the same way, you might consider skipping this attraction.

ADDITIONAL MUSEUMS IN MÁLAGA

• The Carmen Thyssen Museum houses an impressive collection of 230 artworks that explore Spanish-Andalusian painting from the 19th century.
• The Museo de Málaga offers free admission and showcases archaeological finds and paintings from the last century, giving a comprehensive view of the region’s art and history.
• The Museo Automovilístico de Málaga is a treat for car enthusiasts, displaying over 90 polished vintage cars. Entry is free on Mondays from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

9. MERCADO CENTRAL DE ATARAZANAS

Málaga’s largest market, Mercado Central de Atarazanas, is bustling with activity every day.
From Monday to Saturday, visitors can buy fresh produce, such as fruit, vegetables, cheese, fish, meat, and spices.
Even if you’re not cooking during your stay, it’s worth a visit to sample delicious tapas, olives, spreads, fresh juices, oils, and spices.

Mercado Central Atarazanas is open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. Note that there’s no fresh fish on Mondays, as fishing is prohibited that day.

10. PLAYA DE LA MALAGUETA

When visiting Málaga in the summer or autumn, don’t forget to pack your swimwear. Playa de la Malagueta is Málaga’s most popular and busiest beach, stretching 1.2 kilometers along the Costa del Sol. With its light brown sand and calm blue waves, it’s a perfect spot to escape the city bustle.

With a width of around 45 meters, you can usually still find a cozy spot even during the high season when the beach is busy.
However, especially in summer, you should definitely bring a sunshade or beach tent, as shaded areas are scarce. Alternatively, you can rent a beach lounger for €16 per day (as of 2024).

The adjacent promenade is dotted with chiringuitos (beach bars), cafes, and ice cream shops, offering plenty of dining options.
As beautiful as Playa de la Malagueta is, we wouldn't recommend it for a longer beach vacation lasting several days.

11. CALLE MARQUÉS DE LARIOS

The Calle Marqués de Larios, often simply called Calle Larios, is the main promenade in the heart of Málaga's old town and one of the city's most famous streets.
The pedestrian zone, completed in 1891, is named after the textile and sugar magnate Marqués Manuel Domingo Larios, who played a pivotal role in Málaga's industrial transformation and was one of the primary financiers of the street's construction. Today, a bronze statue of this influential patron stands at the roundabout at the start of Calle Larios, watching over "his" street.

Alongside branches of national and international fashion chains, a few traditional shops have survived, such as the Farmacia Mata, with its original furnishings from 1894, or the famous ice cream parlor Casa Mira. For us, Calle Larios is an absolute must-see during any sightseeing tour, not so much for its shops but for its elaborate decorations.
During our visit in February, the street was adorned with festive lights and illuminated carnival motifs.

However, if you’re looking for extensive shopping opportunities, we recommend the "Centro Comercial Larios Centro" shopping mall, located just a few minutes outside the old town, offering a wider variety of stores.

12. SOHO STREET ART

Street art may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Málaga, yet it thrives in the Soho district. In 2013, the city initiated MAUS (Málaga Arte Urbano Soho), a street art project to revitalize this once-neglected neighborhood bordered by the Alameda Principal, the Guadalmedina river, and the harbor.

Soho is brimming with vibrant artwork on building facades, electrical boxes, manhole covers, and more.
To make sure you don’t miss any pieces, you can find a map of key works on the MAUS website.

13. HAMAM AL ANDALUS

The Arabs had a deep understanding of wellness and relaxation—a legacy that remains tangible today. Right in the heart of Málaga's old town lies an impressive testament to this Arab heritage: the Hamam Al Andalus, a traditional bathhouse. Its atmospheric design and bathing rituals instantly transport you to the world of the Orient, making it hard to believe you’re in a coastal Andalusian city.

At the Hamam, you’ll find five pools with warm and cold water, steam baths, and cozy relaxation rooms. For an even more immersive experience, you can book massages and aromatherapies for an additional fee. The Hamam Al Andalus is open daily from 10:00 AM to midnight. Tickets can be conveniently purchased online.

14. ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR YOUR MÁLAGA STAY

• Comfortable shoes are essential: With so much to explore, good footwear is a must.
• Parking in Málaga: Avoid the old town if you’re driving, as many streets are closed to traffic and parking can be expensive (about $20 per day in parking garages).
• Buy tickets online in advance: To skip long queues, especially during peak times, purchase tickets in advance for popular attractions.
• For more insights and travel inspiration, check out our other articles:
  “Málaga's Surroundings: 5 Must-Visit Destinations You Shouldn't Miss”
  “Málaga: The Best Tips & Information for Your Trip”

USEFUL LINKS & RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOU

• Find affordable rental cars at rentalcars.com‍
• Find affordable flights at skyscanner.com‍
• Discover the best accommodations‍
• The best Travel Guides for Málaga
• Unique Excursions to Experience in Málaga

‍

Note: This blog post contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission. There is absolutely no change to the price for you.