Your Complete Malaga Guide to Top Attractions, Local Favorites, and Hidden Gems

Things to do in Malaga are endless — from ancient fortresses and lively markets to scenic viewpoints and delicious local cuisine. Planning a trip to Malaga in 2025? This complete guide features 23 of the city’s very best experiences. Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, or sunseeker, Malaga blends Mediterranean charm with 3,000 years of culture. Let’s explore the top Malaga things to see this year!

With over 3,000 years of history, Malaga has evolved into a vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and creativity. As Picasso’s birthplace and the gateway to Costa del Sol, it’s packed with energy, flavor, and unforgettable charm.

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle

Alt text: Panoramic view of Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle in Malaga from above

One of the top Things to Do in Malaga, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle are two of the city’s most iconic historical sites. Towering above the old town, these fortresses date back to Moorish and Roman times and are essential Things to Do in Malaga.

Why visit:

  • Impressive 11th-century architecture
  • Incredible panoramic views over the port and city
  • Combined ticket for only €5.50

🕒 Best time to go: Early morning or near closing time to avoid crowds. Free entry Sundays after 14:00.

💡 Insider tip: Wear comfortable shoes — the paths are steep and stony. Bring a water bottle and sunscreen.

2. Wander Malaga’s Historic Center

Alt text: Colorful streets of Malaga’s old town with cathedral visible

Step into history as you explore narrow cobbled streets, hidden plazas, and historic buildings. Things to Do in Malaga’s old town? A lot, including discovering local shops and cafes.

Highlights include:

  • Calle Larios (shopping + light shows at Christmas)
  • Plaza de la Merced (Picasso’s birthplace)
  • Roman Theater and “La Manquita” Cathedral
  • Tapas bars like El Pimpi and La Tranca

🚶‍♂️ Free walking tours: Start from Plaza de la Marina, ~2 hours. Just tip your guide!

3. Visit the Cathedral of Malaga (La Manquita)

Alt text: Malaga Cathedral’s towers and city view at sunset

This Renaissance cathedral earned the nickname “The One-Armed Lady” for its unfinished second tower. It’s one of the must-see Malaga attractions.

Don’t miss:

  • The organ with 4,000+ pipes
  • Hand-carved choir stalls
  • Rooftop tour (€12) with city-wide views

⛪ Opening hours:
Mon–Fri: 10:00–20:00, Sat: 10:00–18:00, Sun: 14:00–18:00
🆓 Free early entry: 08:30–09:00 (Mon–Sat), 08:30–09:30 (Sun)

4. Snack at Atarazanas Market

Alt text: Colorful market stalls with fruits, vegetables, and seafood in Atarazanas Market

A local food lover’s paradise! This former Moorish shipyard is now a bustling indoor market packed with Andalusian flavors.

Must try foods:

  • Boquerones en vinagre (anchovies in vinegar)
  • Local cheeses from Malagueña goats
  • Zurrapa (flavored pork lard)

🍤 Some fish stalls double as mini tapas bars – grab a plate and eat standing like the locals.

🕒 Open: Mon–Sat, 8:00–14:30
🚫 Note: Fish stalls are closed on Mondays.

5. Admire Art at the Picasso Museum

Alt text: The entrance of Museo Picasso Malaga with classic Andalusian architecture

No list of Malaga things to see is complete without the Picasso Museum. Set in the elegant Buenavista Palace, it features over 200 works donated by the Picasso family.

🖼️ Exhibits include:

  • Early paintings of his sister Lola
  • Iconic cubist pieces
  • Clay, metal, and mixed media sculptures

🎧 Free audio guides in multiple languages.
🎟️ Entry: €13 (free last 2 hours on Sundays)

👉 Tip: Visit on weekdays or off-season for fewer crowds.

6. Discover the Carmen Thyssen Museum

Alt text: Art gallery with Andalusian paintings inside Carmen Thyssen Museum

This beautifully restored 16th-century palace is home to one of Spain’s best collections of 19th-century Andalusian art.

🖌️ What you’ll see:

  • Romantic landscapes
  • Costumbrismo scenes of everyday life
  • Works by Sorolla, Zuloaga, Zurbarán

🎧 Entry: €12, or €8 for students/seniors.
🆓 Free Sundays after 16:00.

💡 Ideal for art lovers looking for a quieter alternative to the Picasso Museum.

7. See Modern Art at the Pompidou Center

Alt text: El Cubo – the colorful glass entrance to Malaga’s Pompidou Center

One of the most unusual places to visit in Malaga, this futuristic museum brings Parisian modern art to the Costa del Sol.

🎨 Inside you’ll find:

  • Gerhard Richter and David Hockney pieces
  • Rotating exhibits: sculpture, photography, video
  • Accessible design for all visitors

🎟️ Entry: €9 full ticket / Free Sundays after 16:00
📍Located at Muelle Uno – perfect for combining with beach and food.

8. Relax at La Malagueta Beach

Alt text: Aerial view of La Malagueta beach with people sunbathing and city skyline in background

Just 10 minutes from the old town, this Malaga sightseeing highlight is ideal for a chill day in the sun.

🌴 What to expect:

  • Calm waters and lifeguards — family friendly
  • Sunbeds, showers, chiringuitos (beach bars)
  • Water sports and sailing cruises available

🍽️ Eat nearby at La Farola, El Cachalote, or upscale Trocadero Casa de Botes.

🆓 Open 24/7
🏖️ Blue Flag certified beach with accessibility features

9. Stroll the Port and Muelle Uno

Alt text: Palm-lined promenade with boats and sunset at Muelle Uno in Malaga

A modern waterfront filled with shops, restaurants, and fantastic sunset views — what to do in Malaga if you love dining by the sea.

🛍️ Highlights include:

  • Michelin-starred José Carlos García
  • Sunday markets and craft stalls
  • Real Madrid store + boutique brands

📸 Sunset tip: Watch the sun go down behind the Alcazaba and lighthouse from Palmeral de las Sorpresas.

💸 Budget tip: Grab beers at La Sureña or wine buckets at kiosks.

10. Explore the Soho Art District

Alt text: Vibrant street mural in Malaga’s Soho neighborhood with graffiti and art galleries

Once a gritty neighborhood, Soho is now the epicenter of urban creativity — a must on your list of Malaga things to see.

🎨 MAUS Project Murals:

  • D*Face fighter pilot
  • Shepard Fairey’s 8-storey “Paz y Libertad”
  • Felipe Pantone’s rainbow bridge

☕ Cool stops: Mamuchis (global dishes), El 13 (buffet bar), Picnic Soho (NYC style café)

🚶‍♂️ Explore the area on foot starting from CAC Museum or the pedestrian bridge.

11. Gaze from Gibralfaro Mirador

Alt text: Panoramic view over Malaga, the port, and bullring from Gibralfaro viewpoint

For the best views in town, head up to the Gibralfaro viewpoint — one of the top Malaga things to see.

📸 From here you’ll spot:

  • The Alcazaba
  • Malaga Cathedral (La Manquita)
  • La Malagueta bullring
  • The full coastline

🕒 Visit at sunset for golden light and dramatic cityscapes.
🚶‍♀️ Walk (20–30 min uphill) or take bus #35 from Calle Larios.

One of the ultimate Things to Do in Malaga is visiting the Picasso Museum to admire the works of the renowned artist.

Pro tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy the view with snacks and a cold drink.

12. Experience Malaga by Night

Alt text: Roman Theater and La Manquita Cathedral illuminated at night in Malaga

After dark, Malaga comes alive. Many Malaga attractions transform under the lights — romantic, peaceful, and full of life.

🌃 Top nighttime spots:

  • Roman Theater + Alcazaba lit at night
  • Calle Larios Christmas lights (in season)
  • Night jazz at Clarence Club
  • Cocktail bars: The Pharmacy (speakeasy), El Pimpi (local classic)

🚶 Night walking tours: Start at Plaza de la Marina. Many end with a free glass of wine.

13. Hike Caminito del Rey

Alt text: People walking along the wooden path suspended above El Chorro gorge on Caminito del Rey

One of the most thrilling day trips from Malaga, this suspended walkway is not for the faint of heart — but totally worth it.

🌄 What to expect:

  • 7.7 km hike through dramatic cliffs
  • 105 meters above the gorge
  • Helmets and safety guides included

🎟️ Book online in advance: €10 (self-guided), €18 (guided tour)
🚫 Not for children under 8

🥾 Bring: hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, and ID. Total hike takes ~3 hours.

👉 Book your ticket here: Caminito del Rey Tour on GetYourGuide

14. Visit the Botanical Garden La Concepción

Alt text: Purple wisteria blooming over arbor tunnel in Malaga’s La Concepción Garden

One of the most relaxing and beautiful Malaga things to see, this lush subtropical garden is a hidden paradise just 15 min from the center.

🌿 Highlights include:

  • Bamboo forest, waterfalls, orchids
  • “Around the World in 80 Trees” walk
  • Blooming wisteria in spring

🎟️ Entry: €5.20 / Free Sundays after 14:00 (Oct–Mar) or 16:30 (Apr–Sep)
🕒 Open Tue–Sun, closed Mondays

🚍 Take bus #2 + walk 15 min uphill, or go by car/taxi.

15. Explore the Glass and Crystal Museum

Alt text: Elegant room in the Glass and Crystal Museum in Malaga with antique glass pieces

This underrated gem showcases thousands of historic glass artifacts in a restored 18th-century mansion.

🔍 You’ll find:

  • Egyptian and Roman glass
  • Venetian chandeliers
  • 19th-century cameos and perfume bottles

🎟️ Entry: €6 with guided tour included
🕒 Open Tue–Sun, 11:00–19:00 (closed Mondays & August)

💡 Perfect for those looking for lesser-known Malaga attractions with charm and elegance.

Remember, trying authentic tapas is one of the most delightful Things to Do in Malaga while enjoying the local atmosphere.

16. Take a Day Trip to Ronda or Nerja

Alt text: Iconic Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge in Ronda, Spain

Need a break from the city? These are two of the most recommended Malaga day trips.

🏞️ Ronda:

  • 120m-high Puente Nuevo bridge
  • Bullring from 1784
  • Breathtaking valley views and historic charm

🏖️ Nerja:

  • Nerja Caves with prehistoric art
  • Balcón de Europa seafront viewpoint
  • White village of Frigiliana nearby

🚗 Both reachable by bus, train or rental car. Ronda: ~1.5h. Nerja: ~1h.

17. Eat Tapas at El Pimpi and More

Eating tapas in Malaga is more than a meal — it’s a cultural ritual. And El Pimpi is the legendary place to start.

🍷 What to try there:

  • Iberian ham + moscatel wine
  • Boquerones, croquetas, pimientos
  • Local cheese with fig jam

📍Other favorites:

  • La Tranca (authentic + fun)
  • El Tapeo de Cervantes (book ahead!)
  • Casa Lola (several locations)
  • Gloria Hoyos (great prices)

💡 Some bars offer free tapas with your drink — Granada-style!

18. Walk Calle Larios {#larios}

Alt text: Calle Larios pedestrian street in Malaga lit up for Christmas with crowds

One of the most elegant shopping streets in Spain — and a centerpiece of Malaga sightseeing.

🛍️ Why it’s famous:

  • Historic 19th-century architecture
  • Luxury stores, boutique shops, cafés
  • Spectacular seasonal light shows

📸 Most visited in December for the Christmas light display with synchronized music shows at 18:30, 20:00, and 21:30.

19–23. Bonus Local Secrets

Here are 5 lesser-known but incredible Malaga things to see in 2025:

19. 7 Rooftop Bars with a View

20. Hammam Al Ándalus

  • Relax in Moorish-style thermal baths
  • Massage + tea included

21. Mercado de Salamanca

  • Less touristy market for real local food
  • Great place for churros and coffee

22. Russian Art Museum

  • Changing exhibitions from the Hermitage
  • Quiet and modern

23. Cementerio Inglés (English Cemetery)

  • Peaceful, historical, and beautiful
  • Graves of poets, travelers, diplomats

Malaga Map of Attractions

Looking for a visual way to explore everything on this list?

🗺️ Check out our interactive Google Map that includes all 23 places mentioned in this guide:

👉 View the Malaga Attractions Map

Each pin is color-coded by category — history, museums, food, beaches, and more — so you can plan your route easily!

FAQs + Travel Tips

How many days to spend in Malaga?
Minimum 3 days for the main sights. 5+ if you want day trips and beach time.

Is Malaga walkable?
Yes! Most attractions are within 15–20 minutes on foot. Beaches, museums, old town — all connected.

Best time to visit?
Spring and autumn. Warm weather, fewer tourists. Summer is great for the beach, but hot.

Where to stay?
Centro Histórico or Soho for walking everywhere. La Malagueta if you want sea views.

✅ Malaga Things to See
Want to skip the planning?
👉 Check out top-rated tours on GetYourGuide — from Caminito del Rey to city bike tours, it’s all there!

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