A first-time guide to Málaga

11.12.2024 - 16:39 / lonelyplanet.com / Pablo Picasso

Dec 11, 2024 • 6 min read

The gateway to Spain’s gorgeous resort-lined Costa del Sol, Málaga is one of the region’s most vibrant cultural hubs, loved for its museums, art galleries and historic sights. It’s also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and home to both Moorish and Roman ruins. 

Even if it’s your first trip to Málaga, you should have no trouble losing yourself in the country’s deliberate, unhurried way of life and enjoying this city’s eclectic mix of adventure, history, local cuisine and exciting arts scene. Use this quick guide to help you nail the basics. 

There’s no wrong answer to this question, really; Málaga rarely disappoints. 

Summer is an obvious choice so you can enjoy its beaches and hot weather, but this will also be the most crowded and most expensive time to visit. If you’re there in mid-August, catch the nine-day Feria de Málaga, a huge party marked with flamenco, Andalusian traditions, music, street decorations, fireworks and carnival rides. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn will still bring warm temps, possibly enough for swimming in the sea, yet the midday hours will be far more comfortable for lots of walking and sightseeing. The city comes alive at Easter during its annual Semana Santa or Holy Week processions.

There is no proper rainy season in Málaga, but spring and autumn do tend to be wetter than other times of year. Don’t rule out visiting in winter, though, as the weather is dry and sunny with mild temps making outdoor meals and sightseeing a pleasure. 

Málaga isn't a huge city. You can easily capture the main sights and historic highlights in one weekend, focusing on the Museo Picasso, the Alcazaba Moorish fortress and the city’s grand cathedral. 

With four or five days, explore the hip neighborhood of Soho with its funky street art and the traditional fishermen’s neighborhoods of Pedregalejo and El Palo. A week in Málaga, though, ensures a perfect blend of beach time, museum-hopping and even a day trip further afield. Some options: explore Montes de Málaga Natural Park, visit one of the other towns on the Costa del Sol or hike the Caminito del Rey pathway along the steep Gaitanes gorge.

Málaga is one of the main travel hubs in southern Spain and the gateway to the Costa del Sol, so there are plenty of budget and international airlines that fly here from around Europe. From the airport take the local train, bus or metro to the main María Zambrano Train Station in just 20 minutes. From there it’s a short 15-minute bus or metro ride into the historic center or a 20-minute walk. The city’s Centro Histórico is very compact and getting around on foot is best. You’ll probably only need to use buses when going to the beach or old fishermen’s neighborhoods and the local