Best things to do in Málaga

What to see in Malaga: explore the city center

If you are wondering how to make the best use of your time, staying at one of our hotels in Malaga will be the best idea. For example in NH Málaga, which is the perfect place to discover the city. We start our walk by heading just north of our doors and across the Guadalmedina onto Calle Cisneros. 

As you step over the bridge you will observe the Museo Unicaja de Artes y Costumbres Populares – displaying various local artifacts – and then a few meters further along you’ll be presented with the majestic Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, which leads you into the Plaza de la Constitución. We’ve not yet reached our first key sight, however, if a coffee is required then this is an excellent place to take it and sit next to the Fuente de Génova. 

From your brief stop at the fountain, continue down Calle Santa Maria until you arrive at the Cathedral de la Encarnación. This Renaissance-styled building sits magnificently in the center of Málaga’s old town and is one of the most spectacular in the region. The exterior will impress you but inside there is a delightful collection of frescos and sculptures for you to admire. 

Calle San Agustin leads off to the north from the cathedral taking us to our next stop within this short guide of things to do in Málaga: Museo Picasso. Not only is it set in the beautiful Buenavista Palace, its location is in close proximity to the place where Pablo Picasso was actually born. Over 200 of his works take you on a journey of his ever-developing style through the years up until his death in 1973. If time permits there are other carefully chosen temporary collections on show too, which are worth taking in. 

Returning towards the cathedral, the smooth paving stones of Calle Císter take you in the direction of Castillo Gibralfaro. It’s a good few minutes of a walk, with a variety of shops and cafés to tempt along the way, before you move onto the rising Paseo Don Juan Temboury. As the road climbs you’ll be accompanied on your left by the great red fortifications that surround the Alcazaba de Málaga, home to an ancient Roman theatre, just another of the many treasures the city offers, and as you reach the castle you can relish some wonderful views back over the city. An enjoyable wander around this 10th century Moorish palace is complemented by a fascinating military museum. 

Once you’ve seen enough, head back down Paseo Don Juan Temboury and then continue east for around 300 meters till you see La Malagueta, the city’s bullring dating back to the 19th century. Continuing with this list on what to do in Malaga, you can instead afford the 25-minute stroll through the green Parque de Málaga or, even better, wander down to the beach or the harbor and breathe in the sea air.

Discover the jewel of the Costa del Sol

The short tour of Málaga above will certainly give you a taste of this marvelous city but we have a few further suggestions to capture your imagination. 

Famed for its beaches, it seems wrong not to pay a visit before you leave. El Pedregalejo is one in particular that ticks the key boxes. Over a kilometer in length, and with a selection of seafront bars and restaurants, this traditional fishing neighborhood is a refreshing switch from the busier city center. 

Away from the water, another thing to do in Málaga is going to the Concepión Botanic garden dates back to the mid-19th century and is as tranquil a spot as you’re likely to find. Surrounded by exotic plants brought here from around the globe, lose yourself in the same way that the nobility and celebrities of their day used to, appreciating the various fountains and statues along the way. It truly is an outstanding artistic exhibition of natural life. 

Relaxing escapism is not everyone’s choice and so if you crave a challenge during your stay in Andalucia, look no further than the Nerja caves, a short journey to the east of the city. A hike along the Rio Chillar on a warm day really gets you going and a few hours of stunning scenery and crystal clear water is reward in itself even before you reach the final destination. Once there though, be sure to check out the Neanderthal cave paintings and also marvel at the world’s largest known stalactite.

Málaga wining and dining

The eating options around Málaga possibly don’t get the attention they deserve. No matter what time of the day your hunger pangs kick in, or when you’re specifically looking to arrange a meal, this city comes up trumps. Often you’ll wander past somewhere and feel the urge to request a table, but we can also give you a few more specific pointers… 

Best place to have breakfast 

Our hotel breakfast will always ensure you get a filling and healthy start to the day but Málaga provides other early options if you’ve already left our premises. Get yourself across to Iglesia de San Juan Bautista and drop into La Recova to join the locals for your preferred choice from their simple, but delicious selection. 

Best spot for lunch 

A must stop in this guide on things to do in Málaga is La Luz de Candela. Perfectly prepared Mediterranean fare is served up within a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, and we’d certainly recommend that you aim to leave some space for a dessert or two.

Best dinner restaurants 

Garcia Taberna delivers that trendy Málaga vibe with a delectable selection of original dishes from which to choose. The décor is simple but the walls are adorned with unique works of art that provide a variety of conversation starters as you browse the menu. Notice how the local recipes are influenced by ideas and flavors from around the world.

If you're looking for a place with a bit of class: Restaurante Montana in downtown Málaga provides exceptional fine dining options in this emotive 19th century building, including an elegant courtyard to make the experience even more memorable. 

For a truly exceptional meal, book early for a table at the José Carlos García Restaurante on Muelle Uno. As the only eatery boasting a Michelin star, this is the place to go if you are really looking to make an impression on someone special.

Málaga nightlife

This is a city famed for what happens when the sun goes down, and there is something for all tastes. So pop in and see what is going on in the streets around you. 

Finally, in this list of things to do in Malaga could not miss plans for the most cheerful people. During the later hours, as is also the case in daytime, strolling through the narrow streets in this city downtown will always provide copious alternatives for spur-of-the-moment decisions. Try out the districts of Plaza de la Constitución, Calle Larios and Calle Granada and pop into anywhere that appears to offer the vibe you’re looking for. 

When it comes to live music, there is an eclectic scene around the town. If a pulsating night of clubbing is the preferred way to end the day, much of this can be found around Plaza de la Merced and Plaza de Uncibay. More chilled venues include the very trendy Artsenal on the corner of Muelle Uno.