Best things to do in Malaga
Find out more about those top places in Malaga
Málaga Travel Guide: Picasso, Tapas, and the Seaside Surprise You Didn’t See Coming
Let’s be honest—Málaga isn’t exactly love at first sight. With concrete high-rises and industrial zones greeting you at the city’s edge, it may not give off those dreamy, postcard-perfect vibes at first glance. But hang tight, because once you dive in, this coastal city on the Costa del Sol quickly reveals itself as one of Spain’s most surprising hidden gems.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Málaga—whether you're into art, history, food, or just lounging on the beach like a seasoned sun-chaser. So grab your sunnies and stretchy pants, because this Málaga travel guide is your ticket to one of the most unexpectedly awesome places to visit in Spain.
Paying Homage to Picasso (Because Obviously)
Let’s start with the obvious. Málaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and the locals aren’t shy about celebrating their most famous artistic export. The Picasso Museum Málaga, tucked into a 16th-century palace, showcases over 200 of his works and gives you a peek into the mind of a man who clearly never got tired of painting oddly placed eyes.
You can even swing by Picasso’s childhood home, now a museum, and soak up the beginnings of genius before heading out for tapas like a cultured adventurer.
A Rainbow Cube Full of Modern Art
Art lovers, rejoice—Málaga’s Centre Pompidou is a splash of color both inside and out. This branch of the famed Paris museum sits inside a giant multicolored glass cube on the waterfront and houses an impressive collection of contemporary art. Even if modern art isn’t your thing, it’s air-conditioned, photogenic, and just the right amount of weird.
Tapas, Sardines, and Snack-Worthy Streets
Now let’s talk food, because eating in Málaga is a full-blown experience. The city is bursting with traditional tapas bars, where you’ll find everything from charred sardines (grilled espetos style right on the beach) to melt-in-your-mouth jamón. Want fresh-from-the-sea goodness? Head to Atarazanas Market—a buzzing hub of vendors, snacks, and culinary chaos.
Be sure to grab a table at El Pimpi, a Málaga institution where the wine flows, the ham hangs from the ceiling, and the people-watching is five stars.
Sightseeing Like a Sultan (or a Roman, Take Your Pick)
Málaga might not scream “historical treasure” at first, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find layers of history stacked like tapas on a tiny plate. The Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress from the 11th century, is one of the city’s top attractions and offers sweeping views over the Mediterranean.
Just a short hike above it, the Castillo de Gibralfaro gives you an even better vantage point—plus a mild leg workout. And right at the foot of the Alcazaba? A full-blown Roman theatre, because why not casually place ancient ruins in the middle of the city?
Beach Time, Baby
You're on the Mediterranean, so yes, hitting the beach is definitely one of the best things to do in Málaga. La Malagueta Beach is just a short walk from the city center and perfect for an afternoon of sun, sea, and snacking. Want a more local vibe? Head to Pedregalejo, where beachfront restaurants serve espetos straight off the grill and siestas are strongly encouraged.
Why Málaga Should Be on Your Spain Bucket List
It may not wear its charm on its sleeve, but Málaga is packed with surprises—from world-class art and historic landmarks to some of the best seafood in Spain. It’s affordable, fun, and walkable, with plenty of places to visit, quirky streets to explore, and wine to sip while you debate whether to visit another museum or head straight back to the beach.
So next time someone tells you to skip Málaga—don’t. Tell them you’ve read the travel guide, and you know better.
-
Alcazaba
Despite the large number of historical buildings that Spain is known for, you should begin your tour with a visit to The Alcazaba whenever you are in Málaga. Constructed in the early 11th century, this fortified palace owes its existence to the Hammudid dynasty. It remains the best preserved Alcazaba and has a history that dates back to the first century.
-
Picasso Museum
The Museo Picasso Málaga museum can be found in the Buenavista Palace and it was opened in 2003. This museum was built to honor the Master of Art, Pablo Ruiz Picasso and as such, is located in the town where the art virtuoso was born. Displayed in the Museo Picasso Málaga are 285 works of Picasso.
-
Catedral de la Encarnación
The construction of this building dates back to the Renaissance period. The Cathedral of Málaga is a Roman Catholic church and the architectural design and tradition of that time can clearly be seen from this building. It is a great way to begin your tour of the exquisite architectural designs that Spain has to offer.
-
Castillo de Gibralfaro
The people of Málaga consider this landmark as a very important one and is very dear to their hearts. The Castillo de Gibralfaro can be easily determined from its emblems. It easily offers a beautiful view of the city and its status as a hilltop fortress remains well-preserved as well.
-
Caminito del Rey
For starters, a tour of this route is not for the fainthearted. The El Caminito del Rey path has some parts which are so narrow that their dimension is less than 1 m wide. It was built in the early 20th century and can be found suspended between the walls of a gorge with a height of over 100 m from the river below.
