Day 1: Exploring the Heart of the City
Morning: Beginning with History and Culture
Málaga is known not only for its beaches but also for its cultural heritage. The morning of your first day can begin with a visit to the Picasso Museum, one of the city’s most notable museums. Located in the city centre´s Buenavista Palace, it houses an impressive collection of more than 200 works by Málaga’s most famous native son.
From there a short walk will take you to the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress built in the 11th century on the hill overlooking the city centre. Climbing its gardens and walls, you can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Right below the Alcazaba is the Roman Theater, a vestige of the ancient city, built in the 1st century BCE, that deserves a quick stop.
Midday: Lunch in the Historic Centre
For lunch, head to the Atarazanas Market, a vibrant covered marketplace inuagurated in 1879 which offers a wide variety of local produce as well as some local handicrafts. Here you can try the sardines on a skewer, a typical dish from the Málaga coast. You can also savor a tapa of Iberian ham or an ensalada malagueña, a salad made with cod, orange, and olives, a delicious speciality typical of the region.
Afternoon/Evening: Strolling and Shopping in the Historic Centre
After a hearty lunch, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city’s old town. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutique shops, tapas bars, and cafés where you can soak up Málaga’s vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to stroll through Plaza de la Constitución, the city’s central hub, and Calle Larios, one of its main shopping streets.
Nighttime: Dinner in or Above the Historic Centre
Enjoy a night in Málaga at one of its wonderful restaurants overlooking the sea or the city. We recommend El Pimpi, a Málaga classic serving traditional dishes in a historic setting. If you prefer something more exclusive, José Carlos García‘s eponymous Michelin-starred restaurant is ideal for a sophisticated and unique dinner. Or head up the hill above the Alcazaba to the Parador de Málaga Gibarfaro, where well executed local specialities are served with a sweeping view out over the city and sea.
Day 2: Sun, Sea, and Relaxation
Morning: Beaches and Beach Bars
Enjoy breakfast overlooking the sea. Many cafés and bars along the waterfront offer toast with tomato and olive oil along with coffee. Afterward, it’s time to relax on one of Málaga’s beaches. La Malagueta is the best known, but if you prefer something quieter, you can visit Playa de la Caleta or Playa de Huelin, which tend to be less crowded. Along the coast, you’ll find numerous chiringuitos (beach bars) where you can enjoy fresh seafood and avocado salad with shrimp, another typical regional dish.
Mediodía: A Stroll Around the Port and Malagueta Beach
Take advantage of being close to the beach to walk along Málaga’s marina. Here you can enjoy a pleasant view of the yachts and the sea while enjoying a drink and/or bite at one of the terrace bars. Here you can also visit the Centre Pompidou Málaga, an extension of the famous Parisian museum, with modern art exhibitions.
Afternoon: Head Up to Gibralfaro Castle
If you like panoramic views, don’t miss this 14th-century Moorish fortification atop the hill above the Alcazaba, which you can reach by taking a walk along the path up from the Alcazaba. From the top, the view of the city, the port, and the coast is simply breathtaking, and it’s an excellent place for taking photos (and having lunch at the aforementioned parador).
Nighttime: Enjoy the Nightlife
To round off your visit, Málaga offers a vibrant nightlife. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, you can enjoy a drink on one of the terrace cafés. If you’re up for dancing, the Malagueta neighbourhood and the historic centre are full of bars and clubs for all tastes. Don’t forget to try a tinto de verano (a refreshing, sangría-like mix of red wine and soft drink) or a sangría-based cocktail while you enjoy the sea breeze.
Sound appealing? Book a flight to Málaga with us and give this itinerary a shot!