27+ Top Things To Do In Malaga: The Ultimate Guide On What To Do & See In Malaga

Malaga is a city located in southern Spain on the Costa del Sol.

It is the capital of the province of Malaga, which is part of the autonomous region of Andalusia.

With its sunny weather, stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Malaga is a popular destination for tourists from around the world and certainly worth exploring.

With its warm climate and sunny weather, it’s easy to see why Malaga is such a popular tourist destination.

Malaga is the perfect destination for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.

From flamenco dancing and tapas bars to exploring historic landmarks and museums, Malaga offers a wide range of activities for travellers to enjoy.

If you’re not quite ready to take to the historic streets with your best flamenco dance moves, then perhaps our list of popular beaches might pique your interest.

Our list kicks off with Playa de la Malagueta, a popular beach located in the heart of Malaga city, just a short walk from the historic centre.

This sandy beach stretches for about 1km and is known for its crystal-clear waters and lively atmosphere.

One of the unique features of this beach is its proximity to the Real Club Mediterraneo de Malaga, which is Spain's oldest yacht club.

Visitors can enjoy watching the boats sail by or even take part in water sports activities themselves.

The beach area is also surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink or a tasty snack while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

If you haven’t quite had your fill of the Mediterranean Sea just yet then, Playa de La Caleta, a small but charming beach located in the historic fishing district of Malaga, will be your next beach to explore.

This beach is known for its calm waters and picturesque setting, with colourful fishing boats bobbing in the harbour and the historic Gibralfaro Castle visible in the distance.

The sandy beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a popular spot for families and couples looking for a peaceful place to sunbathe and relax.

There are also several beachfront restaurants and bars serving fresh seafood and traditional Spanish dishes.

Playa de La Caleta is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the authentic and traditional side of Costa del Sol, away from the hustle and bustle of Malaga's city centre.

After an afternoon enjoying the authentic Southern Spain beach experience, we suggest heading over to Playa de el Palo a lively and bustling beach located on the eastern outskirts of Malaga.

This long and wide beach is famous for its traditional "chiringuitos," or beachfront restaurants, serving delicious fried fish and other seafood dishes.

The beach is popular with locals and tourists alike, and its vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by the many volleyball nets and other beach games.

The waters are clear and calm, making it a perfect spot for swimming or paddleboarding.

The promenade behind the beach is lined with palm trees and offers a stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Once your desire for sandy beaches, cresting waves and the shade of palm trees has been well and truly met, we suggest taking your outdoor exploration to the rolling hills of the Andalusia mountain range.

The Malaga Mountains offer a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Located just a short drive from the Malaga coastline, this mountain range is characterised by its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and lush forests.

The mountains offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding.

One of the most popular hiking routes is the Caminito del Rey, a narrow walkway that winds its way along the steep cliffs of the gorge, offering breathtaking views of the landscape - one of the best viewpoints in the region.

The mountains are also home to several charming villages, such as Mijas Pueblo and Ojen, where visitors can explore the narrow streets and white-washed houses, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

After seeking the thrills of cliffs, gorges and charming villages, cool off and soak in the beauty of the flora at the botanical gardens.

The Botanical Gardens of Malaga, also known as the Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción, is a nature lover's paradise located just a short drive from the city centre.

Spread over 23 hectares, this botanical garden is home to a diverse collection of plants and trees from around the world, including rare and exotic species.

Visitors can wander through the various themed gardens, such as the palm garden, the succulent garden, and the tropical garden, each offering a unique sensory experience.

The gardens are also home to a small lake and several water features, as well as a number of historical buildings and structures, including an Arab tower and a romantic-style gazebo.

Guided tours are available for those who want to gain local insights and learn more about the site's history and the biodiversity of the gardens.

Don't let transportation worries put a damper on your Malaga adventure - with a plethora of options available for airport transfers and shuttles in Malaga, we've got you covered so you can start your journey off right.

If hiking, swimming and tours of Malaga's natural attractions have left your body in need of a little R&R, then you will be happy to find that Malaga, with its warm climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, offers a wide range of leisure activities and pampering options.

From sunbathing on the beach to indulging in a spa treatment or enjoying a round of golf, there is something for every leisure seeker in the Costa del Sol.

Our pleasure seekers list kicks off with a visit to Masajes Malaga, a popular spa located in the heart of Malaga city centre.

This spa offers a wide range of pampering treatments, including massages, facials, body wraps, and manicures/pedicures.

The spa uses natural and organic products and offers a variety of massage techniques, including Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone massages, to help relieve stress, soothe sore muscles, and improve circulation.

The spa also has a sauna and steam room, which are perfect for relaxation and detoxification.

Visitors can enjoy a cup of herbal tea or fresh juice in the cozy relaxation room before or after their treatment.

The friendly and professional staff provide personalised service and ensure that each guest leaves feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and pampered.

Our second spa option, is sure to leave you just as rejuvenated and pampered as the first.

Sadhana Massage Málaga Center is a popular massage center located in the heart of Malaga, the center offers a wide range of massage therapies, including traditional Thai massage, Ayurvedic massage, hot stone massage, and aromatherapy massage.

The experienced and skilled therapists provide personalised services to cater to the specific needs and preferences of each client, using high-quality essential oils and natural products to ensure that clients receive the best possible treatment.

In addition to massage therapy, Sadhana Massage Málaga Center also offers yoga classes and meditation sessions, providing a holistic approach to health and wellness, while the peaceful and serene ambiance of the center helps visitors relax and unwind, making it the perfect place to escape the stress of everyday life.

If you need to pull out the full pamper arsenal to escape the stress of everyday life, then you will be happy to know that we have saved the best for last!

Hammam Al Andalus Malaga is a unique spa that offers a traditional Arabian bath experience, this luxurious spa is located in a historic building in the heart of Malaga and is decorated in a Moorish style, with beautiful tiles, mosaics, and marble columns.

Visitors can choose from a range of treatments, including the traditional hammam experience, which consists of a series of hot and cold baths, followed by a massage and a cup of sweet mint tea.

The spa also offers a variety of massages and beauty treatments, all using natural and organic products.

The peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the spa makes it the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

With its rich history and stunning architecture, Hammam Al Andalus Malaga offers a unique and unforgettable spa experience that will leave you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and refreshed.

Now that you are feeling refreshed, and your limbs are feeling more limber, a relaxing otdoor sporting activity might be on the cards.

Golf Torrequebrada is a popular golf course located in the coastal town of Benalmádena, just a short drive from Malaga, this 18-hole championship golf course is known for its challenging layout and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The course was designed by José "Pepe" Gancedo, a legendary Spanish golfer, and features a variety of obstacles, including water hazards, bunkers, and undulating greens.

Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy playing on this course, which has hosted several major international tournaments.

The golf course also has a driving range, practice putting greens, and a golf academy where beginners can take lessons from professional instructors.

The course is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful and tranquil setting for golfers to enjoy.

With its challenging layout and stunning scenery, Golf Torrequebrada is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts visiting Malaga.

Another must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts is the Miguel Ángel Jiménez Golf Academy, a premier golf school located in the heart of Malaga.

Founded by the legendary Spanish golfer, Miguel Ángel Jiménez, this academy offers a range of golf instruction programs for players of all ages and skill levels.

The academy's state-of-the-art facilities include a driving range, short game area, putting green, and a bunker practice area, providing students with everything they need to develop their skills.

The academy's team of experienced instructors use the latest teaching techniques and technology, such as video analysis and launch monitors, to help students improve their swing, posture, and overall game.

The academy also offers custom club fitting and equipment advice, as well as mental training and nutrition guidance.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, the Miguel Ángel Jiménez Golf Academy is the perfect place to hone your skills and take your game to the next level.

The last course on our list offers another great opportunity to hone your skills.

Real Guadalhorce Club de Golf is a beautiful 18-hole golf course located just a short drive from Malaga.

This challenging course was designed by renowned golf course architect, Kosti Kuronen, and is characterised by its undulating fairways and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The course is set in a peaceful and natural environment, with lush vegetation and a variety of wildlife.

Real Guadalhorce Club de Golf offers a range of facilities for golfers, including a driving range, putting green, chipping area, and a golf academy where players of all levels can take lessons from professional instructors.

The club also has a clubhouse with a restaurant and a terrace overlooking the golf course, providing a perfect setting to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink after a round of golf.

If the family has declared that dad (or mom) have been spending a little too much time in the sun chasing a little white ball, then fear not, water parks offer great fun for the whole family and make perfect day trips.

Aqualand Torremolinos is one of the largest and most popular water parks in Malaga, the park features a variety of water attractions, including a wave pool, a lazy river, and a range of thrilling water slides.

Visitors can also enjoy a range of other activities, such as mini-golf, bungee jumping, and trampolines.

For younger children, the park has a dedicated children's area with smaller slides and pools.

The park offers a range of facilities, including lockers, changing rooms, and sun loungers, and has several restaurants and snack bars where visitors can grab a bite to eat.

With its fun and exhilarating rides and attractions, Aqualand Torremolinos is the perfect destination for a day of family fun and adventure.

If your family is still trying to beat the heat with water-based thrills then, as luck would have it, Southern Spain has no shortage of water parks to visit.

Aquamijas, the last on our list, is a water park located in the coastal town of Fuengirola, just a short drive from Malaga.

The park features a range of water attractions, including water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.

One of the park's most popular rides is the Black Hole slide, a thrilling ride that takes riders through a dark tunnel before dropping them into a splash pool.

The park also has a dedicated children's area with smaller slides and attractions. Aquamijas offers a range of facilities, including lockers, changing rooms, and sun loungers, and has several restaurants and snack bars where visitors can grab a bite to eat.

The park's spacious and green surroundings make it a pleasant and relaxing place to spend a day with family and friends.

If your day of family fun needs to include very little travellers then our next option offers exactly what you need for water enthusiasts of all ages.

Aquavelis Water Park is a popular water park located in the coastal town of Torre del Mar, just a short drive from Malaga.

The park features a range of attractions, including water slides, a wave pool, and a children's area.

One of the park's most popular rides is the Kamikaze slide, a high-speed slide that drops riders from a height of 15 metres.

For younger children, the park has a range of attractions, such as the pirate ship and the mini-slides.

The park offers a range of facilities, including lockers, changing rooms, and sun loungers, and has several restaurants and snack bars where visitors can grab a bite to eat.

If you’ve found that your inner tourist needs a little bit more excitement after all the pleasant relaxation you’ve indulged in, then Plaza de la Merced is going to be a perfect experience to get you going.

Plaza de la Merced is a vibrant public square located in the heart of Malaga.

The square is surrounded by historic buildings and important monuments, the most notable being the obelisk housing the remains of General José María Torrijos y Uriarte, who was executed on the square in 1831, after a failed coup.

Today, the plaza is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars with outdoor seating.

The square also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts, street art, and festivals.

One of the most notable features of the plaza is the statue of Pablo Picasso, who was born in a nearby building and spent his childhood in the square.

The statue depicts the famous artist sitting on a bench, overlooking the plaza.

Plaza de la Merced is a lively and dynamic public space, offering a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Malaga.

If you’re travelling with a special someone and want some alone time, or some activities that better set the mood than a bustling plaza, we have a few ideas and hidden gems to share with you.

Malaga offers a wealth of activities and attractions for couples to enjoy, from romantic strolls along the beach and visits to the port area, to cultural excursions and pampering spa treatments.

If you and your significant other fall into the group looking for cultural excursions, then Southern Spain is the right destination for you.

Malaga is home to a vibrant art scene, making it an ideal destination for couples interested in exploring the world of art.

The city is home to several galleries and museums showcasing a range of art forms, from painting and sculpture to digital media and installations.

The Centre Pompidou Malaga is a particularly popular destination for art lovers, featuring an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from the Pompidou Center in Paris.

The Contemporary Art Center of Malaga is another must-visit destination for couples interested in art, showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions by emerging and established artists from Spain and around the world.

Viewing art together as a couples activity can be a great way to connect with your partner on an intellectual and emotional level, while also exploring the vibrant cultural scene of Malaga.

And while the pair of you are out seeking Malagas vibrant cultural scene, we can think of no better way to round off an art viewing, with a little local culinary art at a tapas bar.

A Malaga Evening Wine and Tapas Tour is a perfect activity for couples looking for a fun and delicious way to experience the local culture.

The guided tour then takes you on a culinary journey through Malaga's charming historic centre, stopping at a selection of traditional bars and restaurants to sample some of the city's finest wines and tapas.

A knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the different varieties of wine produced in the region and help you choose the perfect pairing for each tapa.

Along the way, you'll discover the secrets of Malaga's gastronomic heritage, learn about the city's history, and soak up the lively and festive atmosphere of the local bars and restaurants.

If the hustle and bustle of the city has the two of you longing for some solitude with a breathtaking backdrop, then look towards the sandy shoreline and step away from the bars and restaurants.

A beach picnic is a perfect romantic activity for couples looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Malaga's gorgeous coastline.

Whether you choose a secluded cove or a bustling beach, a picnic on the sand is a great way to soak up the sun, listen to the waves, and savour some delicious local cuisine.

You can pack a basket with local specialties such as fresh seafood, olives, and artisanal cheese, along with a bottle of wine or a refreshing cocktail.

The soft sand, the sound of the waves, and the stunning sea views make for an unforgettable and romantic setting for a meal.

After the picnic, you can take a romantic stroll along the beach or simply relax in each other's company.

If romantic strolls and picnics are not what you are seeking, Malaga has a vibrant and exciting city that comes alive at night.

With its mix of trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues, there is always something to do after dark.

Whether you're looking for a night out or an evening of partying with friends, Malaga has a diverse and dynamic nightlife scene.

It doesn't get more dynamic than a rooftop bar, and Malaga has no shortage of rooftop bars with breathtaking views of the mediterranean coastline.

Rooftop bars in Malaga offer an unforgettable experience, combining stunning panoramic views with delicious cocktails and a chic atmosphere.

Many of the city's rooftop bars are located in the historic centre, offering breathtaking views of Malaga's iconic landmarks such as the Alcazaba fortress and Malaga Cathedral.

Whether you prefer a romantic and intimate atmosphere or a lively and trendy scene, Malaga's rooftop bars have something to offer every night owl.

As the sun sets over the city, the rooftop bars become even more magical, with a warm and inviting atmosphere that invites you to linger and enjoy the night.

If a city sunset isn't quite the way you want to round off your day, why not let your day of beach activities stretch into the evening at a beach club, perhaps with a sun downer to help the transition.

Trocadero Arena is an exclusive and upscale destination, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that combines luxury, relaxation, and the natural beauty of Malaga's coastline.

The club features a range of amenities, including a large outdoor terrace with sun loungers, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

With its stunning beachfront location, Trocadero Arena offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind in the sun.

The club hosts a range of events, such as live music performances and live DJ sets, creating a lively and festive atmosphere especially after the sun has set.

If you want something a little more exclusive than what is offered in Malaga, Suite del Mar is a stylish and exclusive beach club located on the beautiful Playa del Cable in Marbella, just a short drive from old town of Malaga.

The club features a large outdoor terrace with comfortable sun loungers, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving loacl cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood.

The club also hosts a range of events, such as fashion shows, live music performances, and DJ performances by world-renowned artists, with a breathtaking view of the ocean; it's easy to see why Suite del Mar is so popular.

If the trendy beach bars and equally trendy cocktails have left your stomach wanting something a little more filling, and your mouth longing to taste more of the local cuisine, then tapas bars are the best place to start.

Malaga has some of the best tapas in Spain. El Pimpi, located in the historic centre, offers a wide range of dishes, including roasted pepper salad, shrimp fritter omelette, and cold tomato soup.

La Cosmopolita is another popular spot, serving creative takes on traditional tapas, such as pork cheek with parsnip puree or cod fritters with aioli sauce.

Los Mellizos is a must-visit for seafood lovers, offering fresh and delicious tapas such as fried anchovies, grilled octopus, and garlic prawns.

Experience the unique flavours of Andalusian cuisine by trying all the tiny plates of flavour offered around the city..

If sharing tiny plates of flavour isn’t something you enjoy doing (don’t say this out loud in spain) then restaurants like La Barra de Zapata, a vibrant and trendy bar located in the heart of Malaga's historic centre, a short walk from the city's main attractions, might pique your interest.

The bar has a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with an eclectic decor that combines vintage and modern elements.

La Barra de Zapata offers a wide selection of drinks, including local and international wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails.

The menu features a range of tasty tapas, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The bar also hosts live music performances and DJ sets, creating a lively and energetic ambiance.

With its unique style, friendly staff, and great selection of drinks and food, La Barra de Zapata is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and memorable night out in Malaga.

Our memorable food tour of Malaga’s cuisine is rounded off with arguably the best dessert in the best location the city has to offer.

Casa Aranda is a traditional and iconic cafe located in the heart of Malaga's historic centre, known for its delicious churros and hot chocolate.

The cafe has been around since 1932 and has retained its charming and authentic atmosphere, with its original marble tables, wooden chairs, and colourful tiles.

Casa Aranda offers a range of breakfast options, including churros, porras (a thicker and softer version of churros), tostada (toast with olive oil and tomato), and fresh orange juice.

The highlight of the menu is, of course, the churros, which are freshly made on-site and served hot and crispy, accompanied by a cup of thick, creamy hot chocolate. The cafe also serves coffee, tea, and other beverages.

With its nostalgic and welcoming ambiance and delicious treats, Casa Aranda is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the true flavours of Malaga.

When your eyes start to droop after the comfortable fullness sets in from the samples flavours of Malaga, a good night's rest in a comfortable bed is the preferred conclusion to a day well spent.

ICON Malabar is a luxurious and elegant boutique hotel located in the heart of Malaga's historic centre.

The hotel offers a range of beautifully designed rooms and suites, each with their own unique features and amenities.

Guests can enjoy the hotel's rooftop pool and terrace, offering stunning views of the city, or relax in the stylish lobby bar.

The hotel also features a restaurant serving traditional Andalusian cuisine with a modern twist.

The location is perfect for exploring Malaga's historic landmarks and cultural attractions, with many popular sights, such as the Picasso Museum, Malaga Cathedral, and the Roman Theatre, within walking distance.

ICON Malabar offers a sophisticated and memorable stay in Malaga, with its exceptional service, elegant design, and prime location.

If prime location caught your attention then a mere 1.3 km from La Malagueta Beach, is a vibrant and social accommodation option which offers a variety of rooms to suit your needs, from cosy private spaces to communal dormitories.

The property boasts a shared lounge, private parking, a terrace, and a bar, providing plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow travellers and unwind after a day of exploring.

The hostel also features a shared kitchen and a tour desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property.

The friendly staff, fluent in German, English, Spanish, and French, are available around the clock to assist with any questions or concerns. With its prime location near the city centre, The Urban Jungle Hostel is the perfect home base for experiencing all that Malaga has to offer.

Our list is rounded off with arguably the best of Malaga with a stay at Tennessee Urban Suites, where you'll enjoy a central location and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Take advantage of the terrace and free WiFi while relaxing in your air-conditioned accommodation, which features a fully equipped kitchen, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom complete with all the necessities.

You can even prepare your own meals with the fridge, stovetop, and kettle provided in your room.

Explore nearby attractions like La Malagueta Beach, La Caleta Beach, Picasso Museum, Alcazaba, Museum of Glass and Crystal, and Jorge Rando Museum just to name a few.

If Christmas in Malaga has a cherished spot on your bucket list, then you will be delighted to find that colourful decorations, festive markets, and lively events are some of the many ways to enjoy the holiday spirit in Malaga.

From traditional Christmas carols to dazzling light displays, visitors can experience the unique customs and traditions of Andalusia during this magical time of year.

The festive magic truly starts here,The Botanical Gardens offer a unique and enchanting experience during the Christmas season with its beautiful display of lights.

The gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland, with thousands of twinkling lights decorating the trees, plants, and walkways.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admiring the colourful displays and taking in the festive atmosphere.

There are also special events and activities organised during the Christmas season, such as carol singing and a market selling handmade crafts and gifts.

If sifting through handmade crafts and gifts has your mind bustling with ideas for loved one’s who may appreciate treasures from your travels, Santa's Grotto is a popular attraction for families and children during the Christmas season in Malaga.

The grotto is typically located in a festive setting, such as a shopping mall or old town, and is decorated with Christmas lights, tinsel, and other decorations.

Children can meet Santa Claus, share their Christmas wish list, and take a photo with him.

There are also usually other activities available, such as craft making, games, and storytelling.

Santa's Grotto is a great way to create magical memories with children and experience the joy and excitement of Christmas.

Chasing the excitement of Christmas wouldn't be complete without a trip to theTraditional Christmas markets, a popular and cherished feature of the holiday season in Malaga.

The markets are typically held in the city centre, with rows of stalls selling a wide range of gifts, decorations, and treats.

Visitors can find handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing, and traditional Spanish products such as olive oil and ceramics.

There are also plenty of festive foods to try, such as roasted chestnuts, churros, and mulled wine.

The markets are a great place to soak up the holiday atmosphere, with live music, carol singing, and street performers adding to the festive spirit.