🇪🇸 Top 20 Best Things to Do in Málaga, Spain: 2025 Travel Guide
¡Hola traveller! Welcome to Málaga, a city that captures the heart with its golden light, sea breezes, and Andalusian charm. Nestled along Spain’s glittering Costa del Sol, Málaga is more than just a gateway to the beach. It’s a perfect mix of history, art, sunshine, and tapas.
Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a full week of Spanish adventure, this 2025 guide covers the top 20 best things to do in Málaga, hand-picked to help you taste, feel, and explore the soul of this Mediterranean gem. Grab your shades, some sunscreen, and let’s dive in! ☀️
- 1. ⛪ Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación de Málaga (“La Manquita”)
- 2. 🏰 Alcazaba
- 3. 🎨 Museo Picasso Málaga
- 4. 🌄 Castillo de Gibralfaro
- 5. 🌴 Palmeral de Las Sorpresas
- 6. 🍷 Have Tapas at Picasso Bar Tapas
- 7. 🖼️ Centre Pompidou Málaga
- 8. 🌳 Parque de Málaga
- 9. 🥘 Mercado de Atarazanas
- 10. 🏖️ Playa la Malagueta
- 11. 🍩 Have Authentic Churros at Casa Aranda
- 12. 🧖 Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes
- 13. 💃 Flamenco Show at Alegría Flamenco y Gastronomía
- 14. 🌿 Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción
- 15. 🏯 Day Trip to Castillo de Colomares
- 16. 🦋 Day Trip to Mariposario de Benalmádena (Butterfly Park)
- 17. 🎭 Explore the Historic Centre & Teatro Romano de Málaga
- 18. 🥾 Day Trip to Caminito del Rey
- 19. 🍸 Wine & Gin Tasting in Soho Málaga
- 20. 🛍️ Centro Comercial Larios Centro
- 🗺️ Map of 20 Best Things to do in Málaga, Spain
1. ⛪ Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación de Málaga (“La Manquita”)
Locals lovingly call this grand cathedral La Manquita: “the one-armed lady”, because one of its towers was never finished. But that imperfection makes it even more beautiful. Standing proudly in the old town, the cathedral is a mix of Renaissance grace and Baroque details that reveal centuries of craftsmanship. Step inside and you’ll be awed by its soaring ceilings, ornate chapels, and peaceful hush that feels worlds away from the busy streets outside. Climb to the rooftop for one of the most breathtaking city views: terracotta rooftops, blue sea, and the mountains framing it all. Visiting this masterpiece isn’t just sightseeing, it’s an encounter with Málaga’s heart and soul.
🕘 Mon-Sat 10:00–18:00, Sunday 14:00-18:00
💸 Entrance fee: €10, discounts available
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Go early to enjoy the quiet before tours arrive.
🌟 Don’t skip the rooftop climb, it’s worth every step.
🌟 Shoulders covered inside; light scarf does the trick.
2. 🏰 Alcazaba
Perched on a hill above the city, the Alcazaba is a dazzling reminder of Málaga’s Moorish past. Built in the 11th century, this fortress-palace was once home to Muslim rulers who watched over the coastline from its towers. Wander its courtyards, marble fountains, and jasmine-scented gardens; every corner feels like a step back in time. The Alcazaba’s mix of Arabic arches, tiled patios, and sweeping views makes it one of the best things to do in Málaga for history lovers and romantics alike.
🕘 Daily 09:00–20:00
💸 Entrance fee: €7 (get a combo ticket with Castillo de Gibralfaro for €10)
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Wear comfy shoes, the paths are cobbled and sloped.
🌟 Late-afternoon visits mean softer light and fewer crowds.
🌟 Bring a water bottle; shade is limited at the top.
3. 🎨 Museo Picasso Málaga
Pablo Picasso was born right here in Málaga, and this museum is a love letter to his genius. Set inside a restored 16th-century palace, it houses more than 200 of his works: sketches, sculptures, ceramics, and paintings that show his evolution from youthful realism to his bold, abstract style. Even if you’re not an art buff, the experience feels intimate and inspiring; seeing where Picasso’s imagination began connects you deeply to the city itself. After exploring, relax in the peaceful courtyard café, a perfect pause before more Málaga wandering.
🕘 Daily 10:00–19:00
💸 Entrance fee: €13 (free last Sunday of every month)
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Buy tickets online to skip the queue.
🌟 The free audio guide is worth using, concise and fun.
🌟 Stop by the museum shop for creative souvenirs.
4. 🌄 Castillo de Gibralfaro
High above the city, this 14th-century fortress has guarded Málaga for centuries. The climb (or short bus ride) rewards you with jaw-dropping views of the port, the Mediterranean, and even the bullring below. Stroll the ramparts and imagine sentinels watching for approaching ships; the thick stone walls and pine trees whisper stories from long ago. Bring a camera, the panorama is unbeatable, especially at sunset when the whole city glows golden. It’s easy to see why visiting Gibralfaro is always listed among the best things to do in Málaga.
🕘 Daily 09:00–20:00
💸 Entrance fee: €7 (get a combo ticket with Alcazaba for €10)
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Take bus 35 up and walk down for views both ways.
🌟 Arrive an hour before sunset for golden-hour photos.
🌟 Carry water and a light jacket, breezy at the top!
5. 🌴 Palmeral de Las Sorpresas
Down by the harbour lies a palm-lined promenade whose name means “The Palm Grove of Surprises”, and it truly delights. Locals jog, couples stroll, children play, and street performers add melody to the sea breeze. The modern design mixes art sculptures and shaded walkways, creating a cool contrast to Málaga’s old-town charm. It’s ideal for a sunset wander or a lazy afternoon coffee by the marina. The views of yachts and the iconic lighthouse make it one of those effortlessly happy places that remind you you’re on holiday.
🕘 24/7
💸 Entrance fee: Free entry!
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Grab a gelato and people-watch under the palms.
🌟 Visit near sunset for dreamy photos.
🌟 Combine with a harbour cruise right next door.
6. 🍷 Have Tapas at Picasso Bar Tapas
Named after Málaga’s most famous son, Picasso Bar Tapas captures the lively, artistic energy of the city. This cozy, always-buzzing spot is tucked into the heart of the old town, just steps from the cathedral. Here, locals and travellers gather around wooden barrels and mosaic-topped tables to share plates of crispy croquettes, grilled prawns, and spicy patatas bravas. The walls are decorated with quirky Picasso prints and Andalusian tiles, giving the place a warm, creative vibe. Eating here isn’t just about food: it’s about soaking up Málaga’s joyful rhythm, one tapa and one glass of vino tinto at a time.
🕘 Daily 10:00-00:00
💸 Prices: €2–€6 per tapa
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Try their boquerones en vinagre: Málaga’s beloved marinated anchovies.
🌟 Pair tapas with a local sweet Málaga wine for the full experience.
🌟 Go early evening (around 7:30 pm) to grab a table before the rush.
7. 🖼️ Centre Pompidou Málaga
The rainbow-cube building at the port is impossible to miss. Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions from the Paris Pompidou’s collection: everything from surrealist masterpieces to bold modern installations. The space is bright, airy, and wonderfully photogenic, merging art and architecture in a way that feels playful. Even if contemporary art isn’t your usual thing, wandering here is refreshing; you’ll leave inspired and maybe a bit curious about your own creativity.
🕘 Wed-Mon 09:30-20:00
💸 Entrance fee: €7, collections vary
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Visit mid-morning, fewer crowds.
🌟 Snap the cube from outside; reflections are stunning.
🌟 Pair with lunch at a nearby seaside restaurant.
8. 🌳 Parque de Málaga
Stretching along the port, this green oasis feels like Málaga’s tropical lung. Tall palms, exotic flowers, fountains, and shaded benches make it the perfect escape from midday heat. Locals stroll here on siesta, children chase pigeons, and parrots squawk overhead. You can almost forget you’re in a bustling city. Take your time, there’s art hidden among the foliage and a soft sea breeze rustling through. It’s one of the best free things to do in Málaga when you need a slow moment.
🕘 24/7
💸 Entrance fee: Free entry!
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Bring a snack for a shady mini-picnic.
🌟 Spot the tropical birds, they’re noisy but adorable.
🌟 Combine with nearby Alcazaba or harbour walk.
9. 🥘 Mercado de Atarazanas
Step through the grand Moorish archway and you’re hit with colour, aroma, and energy. This covered market, once a shipyard centuries ago, is now a feast for the senses: gleaming fish on ice, pyramids of fruit, hanging jamón, and sizzling tapas bars. Locals do their daily shop here, but visitors come for the atmosphere as much as the snacks. Grab a stool, order fried anchovies and a glass of sweet Málaga wine, and you’ll instantly feel part of city life. It’s vibrant, authentic, and absolutely one of the best things to do in Málaga.
🕘 Mon-Sat 09:00-14:00
💸 Entrance fee: Free entry!
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Go early for the freshest produce.
🌟 Bring small cash for quick buys.
🌟 Try the seafood tapas bar near the centre aisle, locals swear by it.
10. 🏖️ Playa la Malagueta
Few cities make beach time this easy. Just a 10-minute walk from the centre, Playa la Malagueta offers golden sand, calm waves, and that unmistakable holiday vibe. Families play volleyball, locals jog, and visitors lounge with sangria in hand. Rows of palm trees frame the promenade, and the smell of grilled sardines drifts from beach bars. Spend an hour or a whole day, swimming, sunbathing, or people-watching, this beach captures the laid-back spirit that makes Málaga irresistible.
🕘 24/7
💸 Entrance fee: Free entry! Sunbeds around €6–€10
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Arrive early for a front-row towel spot.
🌟 Try a chiringuito’s sardine skewers, smoky perfection.
🌟 Pack reef-safe sunscreen; the Andalusian sun is strong!
11. 🍩 Have Authentic Churros at Casa Aranda
If heaven had a breakfast smell, it would be the sweet aroma wafting out of Casa Aranda. Founded in 1932, this legendary churrería is a Málaga institution: locals, students, and families all come here for crispy golden churros dunked in thick, velvety hot chocolate. The place feels delightfully old-school: tiled walls, clinking cups, and the hum of chatter. Order a plate, sip your coffee, and watch Málaga wake up around you. Eating churros here isn’t just a snack, it’s a tradition that connects you to the rhythm of local life.
🕘 Daily 08:00-14:15 and 16:30-20:15
💸 Prices: €5–€8 for churros & chocolate
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Go early, it gets packed after 10 am.
🌟 Try the porras (thicker churros) for a true local favourite.
🌟 Bring cash; it’s faster than card payments here.
12. 🧖 Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes
Tucked away in the old quarter, the Hammam Al Ándalus transports you straight into a world of soft light, mosaics, and serenity. Inspired by ancient Moorish bathhouses, this spa blends history and luxury: move between warm, hot, and cool pools under beautiful arches, sip mint tea in candlelight, and let the sound of trickling fountains lull you into pure bliss. You’ll emerge refreshed, relaxed, and feeling like royalty. If you’re wondering how to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, this is hands-down one of the best things to do in Málaga.
🕘 Daily 09:00-00:00
💸 Prices: From €50 (basic bath); massages extra
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Book in advance, evening slots fill fast.
🌟 Bring swimwear; towels and slippers are provided.
🌟 Stay for tea in the lounge afterward, pure tranquility.
13. 💃 Flamenco Show at Alegría Flamenco y Gastronomía
Feel the heartbeat of Andalusia in one unforgettable night. At Alegría Flamenco y Gastronomía, dancers stamp, singers wail, and guitarists strum with pure passion. The show is intimate, you’re so close you can see the emotion in every movement. Pair it with tapas or dinner and you’ve got a full cultural experience. The raw intensity of live flamenco is something you simply can’t capture in photos; it’s one of those best things to do in Málaga that stays with you long after the music stops.
🕘 Evening shows (check schedule)
💸 Prices: €25–€45 depending on meal option
📍 Google Maps
🌟Reserve seats close to the stage for the full effect.
🌟 Have dinner before or after to relax and reflect.
🌟 Clap along during the show, audience energy fuels the performers!
14. 🌿 Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción
A 15-minute drive from the city, this lush botanical garden feels like a slice of paradise. Created in the 19th century by a wealthy family, it’s home to towering palms, exotic plants, ponds, waterfalls, and panoramic views. The shaded paths, ancient staircases, and little bridges make it ideal for a slow wander or romantic picnic. Nature lovers and photographers will adore it, every corner bursts with green serenity. Visiting La Concepción reminds you that one of the best things to do in Málaga is simply to breathe, slow down, and enjoy the beauty around you.
🕘 Tue-Sun 09:30-17:30
💸 Entrance fee: €5.20
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Bring mosquito spray and comfy shoes.
🌟 The “Viewpoint of the City” offers the best skyline shots.
🌟 Stop by the small café for a cold drink afterward.
15. 🏯 Day Trip to Castillo de Colomares
If fairy tales were real, they’d look like Castillo de Colomares. This whimsical monument in Benalmádena was built in the 1990s by a single man to honour Christopher Columbus. It mixes Gothic, Romanesque, and Moorish styles: think turrets, arches, and carvings that look straight out of a fantasy film. Every inch tells a story, and the views of the coast are incredible. It’s an easy half-day trip from Málaga and feels worlds away from the crowds. A little strange, totally photogenic, and one of the most unique things to do near Málaga.
🕘 Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00
💸 Entrance fee: €3
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Bring your camera, every angle is picture-perfect.
🌟 Visit early morning to avoid tour groups.
🌟 Combine with nearby Benalmádena Pueblo for lunch.
16. 🦋 Day Trip to Mariposario de Benalmádena (Butterfly Park)
Just down the road from Colomares Castle lies another magical spot, a tropical paradise filled with thousands of butterflies. The Mariposario is housed in a Thai-style temple, complete with waterfalls and exotic plants. As you walk through, butterflies flutter all around, landing gently on shoulders and flowers. It’s peaceful, colourful, and surprisingly educational: perfect for families or anyone needing a slow, happy hour surrounded by nature.
🕘 Daily 10:00-18:00
💸 Entrance fee: €13
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Wear bright colours: butterflies may land on you!
🌟 The interior is warm; dress light.
🌟 Great to pair with the Colomares Castle trip.
17. 🎭 Explore the Historic Centre & Teatro Romano de Málaga
The heartbeat of Málaga lies in its old town: a maze of cobblestone streets, lively plazas, and centuries of stories. Wander Calle Larios with its elegant shops, sip coffee on Plaza de la Constitución, and pop into tiny boutiques and churches tucked between pastel facades. Then, step back in time at the Roman Theatre, built in the 1st century BC and rediscovered in the 1950s. You can explore the remains for free and imagine ancient performances under the Spanish sun. Strolling the old town and Teatro Romano is like peeling back layers of history, all within easy walking distance, truly one of the best things to do in Málaga for first-timers.
🕘 Theatre: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00
💸 Entrance fee: Free!
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Join a free walking tour to learn hidden stories.
🌟 Grab a drink in Plaza de la Merced afterward.
🌟 Great to pair wWear comfy shoes, cobblestones can be slippery.
18. 🥾 Day Trip to Caminito del Rey
If adventure calls, you can’t miss Caminito del Rey: one of Spain’s most breathtaking cliffside walks. Originally built in the early 1900s for hydroelectric workers, this narrow path clings to steep gorges, offering jaw-dropping views of the turquoise Guadalhorce River below. Walking the trail is both exhilarating and peaceful: the sound of rushing water, the wind in your hair, and the dramatic cliffs make every step unforgettable. For nature lovers, photographers, and thrill-seekers, a day here is an unforgettable experience and ranks as one of the best things to do in Málaga province. It’s a perfect mix of adrenaline and awe, yet completely safe for most visitors thanks to the recently renovated walkways and suspension bridges.
🕘 Daily 9 am–6 pm (check seasonally)
💸 Entrance fee: Around €12–€18 adult (book in advance; guided tours extra)
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Book tickets online well in advance, it’s hugely popular.
🌟 Wear sturdy shoes and bring water; the path is easy but long (~7 km).
🌟 Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light for photos.
19. 🍸 Wine & Gin Tasting in Soho Málaga
The creative Soho district buzzes with art, murals, and modern energy, and come evening, it transforms into a playground for food and drink lovers. Hidden among its colourful streets are chic gin bars, craft beer spots, and cosy wine lounges where you can sample Málaga’s famous sweet wines or new Andalusian gin blends. Locals chat, jazz drifts from speakers, and you’ll find yourself lingering far longer than planned. For nightlife that feels both stylish and authentic, this is among the best things to do in Málaga after dark.
🕘 Evening till late
💸 Entrance fee: Depends on bar; €15–€25
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Try a local gin with rosemary or citrus twist.
🌟 Start with dinner nearby, Soho has amazing restaurants.
🌟 Respect local pace: evenings start late, around 9 pm.
20. 🛍️ Centro Comercial Larios Centro
Need a little retail therapy? Head to Larios Centro, Málaga’s most popular shopping mall. Just a short walk from the train station, this modern two-level centre is packed with Spanish and international brands: from Zara and Mango to Sephora and Primark. It’s air-conditioned (a blessing in summer), clean, and full of dining options when you need a break. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs, beachwear, or simply escaping the midday sun, spending an hour here is a surprisingly fun addition to your itinerary, especially for those who like balancing sightseeing with a bit of shopping.
🕘 Mon-Sat 10:00-22:00
💸 Entrance fee: Free entry!
📍 Google Maps
🌟 Go mid-morning to avoid the afternoon rush.
🌟 Check the upstairs terrace for cafés with city views.
🌟 Save space in your luggage: prices can be great during sales!
🗺️ Map of 20 Best Things to do in Málaga, Spain
And there you have it, 20 amazing things to do in Málaga that show just how diverse and delightful this city is. From ancient Moorish walls to modern art cubes, from sizzling tapas to tranquil gardens, Málaga blends history, sunshine, and soul like nowhere else.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full Spanish escape, this city will steal your heart (and probably fill your camera roll). Remember to slow down, sip local wine, and let the rhythm of Andalusian life take over.
Gracias for joining this journey, now pack your bags and come experience the best things to do in Málaga for yourself. ¡Buen viaje y disfruta de Málaga! 🇪🇸✨
📖 Málaga Travel Guide
See my full Málaga Travel Guide for more tips on what to do, where to eat, where to stay, day trips and itineraries!
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