Malaga is home to seven sandy beaches, so you have plenty of choice when you want to escape the city streets and soak up the Spanish heat by the sea. La Malagueta is the closest beach to the city. Accessed via the Pablo Picasso promenade, this lively beach is packed full of facilities and is lined with restaurants and bars. Las Acacias-Pedralejo is a Blue Flag beach and so is perfect for a family day out in the sun. If you prefer to go to nudist beaches, then San Julian Guadalmar beach is the spot of shore that you’re looking for!
What are the top hotels in Malaga?
Just a short walk from the historic centre of Malaga, the Barcelo Malaga is a four-star stylish hotel with a rooftop pool so you can enjoy a refreshing dip and a sunbathing session with stunning city views. Another four-star pick is the Malaga Centro hotel, which features traditional interiors, a rooftop pool and a central location – a perfect base for exploring the city.
If you’re seeking a budget option for your holiday to Malaga, the Atarazanas Malaga Boutique hotel offers simple yet comfortable accommodation with an on-site café and Wi-Fi access. For a chic stay next to the famous Malaga Cathedral, the Molina Lario Hotel is a modern hotel which features a rooftop chill-out bar and pool, whilst within easy reach of Malaga’s attractions.
Those who prefer to be by the beach can enjoy a comfortable stay at the MS Maestranza Hotel, only 200m from the beachfront. With bars and restaurants within walking distance and an on-site spa, this is a fantastic choice for those seeking a city break by the beach in Malaga.
Popular Malaga hotels
Weather in Malaga
JAN
13°C
FEB
14°C
MAR
16°C
APR
18°C
MAY
22°C
JUN
23°C
JUL
26°C
AUG
26°C
SEP
24°C
OCT
21°C
NOV
17°C
DEC
14°C
With long hot summers and mild winters, Malaga is a great destination all year round. July is the city’s warmest month with average temperatures sitting at 25C and highs of 31C. Winter temperature usually sit around 13C with November being the wettest month. If you love nothing better than a dip in the sea, then August is the month to visit with sea temperatures being around 24C.
View destination on a map
FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Malaga?
It takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to fly to Malaga from the UK.
What’s the time difference between the UK and Malaga?
Malaga is one hour ahead of the UK.
What currency do they use in Malaga?
The official currency of Malaga is the Euro.
What language do they speak in Malaga?
The official language spoken in Malaga is Spanish.
Port of Malaga
Modern and glamorous, this port is like no other. Sip cocktails at one of the bars, enjoy an outstanding meal at a restaurant or browse the boutique shops. Lined with palm trees and with yachts sat on the shore, the Port of Malaga has a unique atmosphere that everyone loves.
Picasso Museum
Whether you’re an art fanatic or simply know of Picasso’s work - a city break to Malaga wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Picasso Museum. Take a look around the exhibit showcasing Picasso’s work in chronological order and see how he shaped the entire world of art.
Ataranazas Market
In the heart of Malaga City, this huge indoor market is definitely worth a visit. If you appreciate architecture, the building’s large stained-glass window and iron detailing is worth the visit alone! Inside you’ll find plenty of fantastic fresh produce from meat to cheese; fish to wine. There’s even a handful of tapas bars at the centre – perfect for a pit stop.
Catedral de Málaga
This gigantic cathedral is one of the beautiful gems you must see when exploring Malaga. With a multitude of styles including Baroque, Gothic and Neoclassic, it’s easy to spend hours walking around this amazing cathedral.
Chíllar River
If you love to be in nature, hike through the Chíllar River to the Caves of Nerja. This trek can take around 4-6 hours and is a must for those who love to hike. If you’re up for the challenge you’ll not regret it as you’ll be met with outstanding views of the region along the way.
La Alcazaba & Roman Theatre
Located just a short walk from the city’s main beach, this medieval fortress is a prime example of Moorish design, dating back to the 11th century. Take a walk around the well-preserved buildings and stroll through the fountain gardens before heading down the hill to see the ancient Roman Theatre, built in the first century BC!
Things to do in Malaga for couples
What could be more romantic than watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea? We’re struggling to think of anything that comes close. Come to think of it, walking hand in hand or laying side by side on the shores of the Mediterranean is pretty romantic, too. That settles it; Malaga is meant for couples holidays.
Book a boat trip from Puerto de Malaga and you’ll get a new perspective on how beautiful this part of the Costa del Sol is. Bonus points if it’s one where you can jump into the water together for a swim. Love to explore an offbeat museum? Head to the Museo Automovilistico y de la Moda, where you’ll find an incredible collection of classic cars that tracks the artistic evolution of sports cars through the years. Maybe one day you’ll be driving off into the sun set in one of them…
Things to do in Malaga for families
Family holidays and Malaga are the perfect match. A short hop of a flight means the kids aren’t bored on the plane. Almost-guaranteed great weather means that your sunny plans won’t get rained off. And, finally, the list of things to do is endless. Whether you stay in Malaga or take a day trip to the nearby town of Torremolinos, you’re bound to make tons of memories with your little ones.
Experience the magic of illusions at the Museum of Imagination. This is brilliant for children and big kids alike (as well as any combination of these that you have in your family). This unusual museum is full of optical illusions and priceless photo ops – there’s a room where the littlest child will tower over dad, and another where you’ll be dancing on the ceiling. Prefer a more traditional holiday activity? Head to the waterfront promenade where you’ll find playgrounds and family-friendly attractions.
Things to do in Malaga for hen and stag dos
Ooh, aah, Malaga. No pre-wedding adventure is complete without a trip to this brilliant beach destination. Especially if you have your bridesmaids or groomsmen in tow. I mean, your squad has an amazing time just sitting around in the pub. Imagine the laughs you’ll have on the Costa del Sol. After all, everything’s better on the beach; especially when it comes to hen and stag dos.
Spend your days relaxing on Malaga Beach, diving in to some watersports or sipping cocktails by the sea. In the evenings head out for some traditional tapas for party fuel, and then hit the clubs in downtown Malaga. We love La Malagueta, an exclusive part of the resort that offers special nights out that your I Do Crew will never forget. Plaza Mitjana is another hot-spot for bars and clubs. Is it shots o’clock? Get yourselves to La Botellita and raise a toast (or two) to the soon-to-be married couple.
What events can I go to in Malaga?
Malaga Carnival (February/March) – Taking place just before Christian Lent, Malaga Carnival is spread over a number of days and is where you can enjoy watching parades, street performances and take part in workshops. There’s even a children’s carnival too for the little ones to enjoy!
Noche en Blanco (May) – An incredible evening to be in Malaga. When the sun sets, people in the city come out to visit monuments, museums, art shows, concerts and so much more! With tons of free events across the city – it’s definitely one to add to your calendar.
Malaga Gastronomy Festival (May/June) – Discover the taste of Malaga at the Gastronomy Festival. Experience show cooking, try out food tasting and indulge in the delicious street food at the festival. A perfect event for foodies.
Malaga Flamenco Festival (June/July) – If you want to dive into Spanish culture, visit Malaga’s Flamenco Festival. Watch the amazing art of Flamenco dancing and listen to the traditional music. It’s certainly a unique experience.
Malaga Fair (August) – Party all day and night at Malaga Fair. Located in the Old Quarter and Real de la Feria, you can explore the different huts, dance, watch the fireworks and listen to the music. It’s the best party of the summer!
Where’s the best nightlife in Malaga?
Young or old; reserved or lively, no matter who you are or what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here in Malaga. Enjoy chic and cosmopolitan bars in the El Palo Y Perdregalejo area, sip a cocktail whilst enjoying the sunset from a beach bar at La Malagueta or head to the centre of Malaga’s nightlife scene at Plaza Uncibay. With cosy tavernas and wine cellars, modern and lively bars, and clubs to keep you dancing until dawn, it’s easy to find your perfect night out in Malaga.
What's the food like in Malaga?
Traditional Spanish food is some of the best in the world, and that’s why dining in Malaga will never disappoint. Try out different tasty tapas dishes, some of our favourites include the local ham and cheese cuts, meatballs in a tomato sauce, hot chorizo, garlic prawns and of course, patatas bravas. If you want to try the unique dish of Malaga, head to the beach and find a barbeque that’s serving delicious espeto, sardines roasted over a barbeque with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon. Don’t forget to grab a jug of sangria to share too, a fruity refreshment to enjoy under the Spanish sun.
Key facts about Malaga
Flight Time
2 hr 45 mins
Time difference
+1 hr
Currency
Euro
Language
Spanish
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Malaga?
Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Malaga?
There is no tourist tax in Malaga.
Will COVID-19 affect my holiday to Malaga?
We are currently closely following the COVID-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to Spain on the FCDO website.
