So, you think you know everything there is to know about Costa del Sol? Think again! We’ve gone beyond the beaches to bring you the inside scoop on the must-dos, sees and eats. We’re talking whitewashed villages, dramatic natural landscapes and a culinary scene that’s as diverse as it is delicious. 

Cultural credentials 

Malaga’s the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and the city pays homage to him at the Museo Picasso Malaga, housed in a restored palace. Budding creatives will also be in their element at the Centre Pompidou Malaga and the Carmen Thyssen Museum. Street art more your thing? Take a stroll through the Soho district and you won’t be disappointed.  

Bit of a culture buff? You’re a match for Antequera. Check out the Dolmens of Antequera – prehistoric burial mounds that are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hilltop Alcazaba fortress that towers over the city is bound to steal your camera’s lens too. 

Inland gems 

Head away from the coast to experience a different kind of beauty – one steeped in tradition and shaped by centuries of history. Here, authenticity takes centre stage, and the pace of life is slower. Perched dramatically above a deep gorge, Ronda should be top of your itinerary. The Puente Nuevo bridge connects the old and new towns, offering jaw-dropping views of the surrounding countryside. Wander the cobbled streets, explore the Moorish palace and tick off the Arab Baths.  

If you’re after picture-perfect scenery, you can’t beat Frigiliana. In fact, it was named one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Once you’ve spied the maze of narrow, winding walkways, mosaic-tiled plazas and charming houses adorned with potted plants – you'll soon see why. Its Moorish heritage is evident in its architecture and layout, and the panoramas of the Mediterranean are worth the trip alone. 

Ornate old towns 

Leafy lanes, historical landmarks, blink-and-you-miss-them boutiques... Costa del Sol’s old towns are a treasure trove for explorers. Marbella Old Town is all wrought-iron balconies and flower-filled lanes. The centrepiece is Plaza de los Naranjos, a lively square lined with orange trees, tapas bars and the 16th-century Town Hall. Estepona’s another that’s no slouch in the scenery stakes, decorated with colourful ceramic pots. Don’t miss the Church of Los Remedios and the clock tower too.  

You can also bank on Mijas for a relaxed retreat. Perched on a hillside, its whitewashed streets, artisan shops and charming plazas offer the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. And that’s not forgetting the stunning panoramic views of the coast and surrounding mountains. 

Active adventures 

If your idea of holiday heaven is more fresh-air fun than lazing in the sun, there’s plenty to get stuck into around these parts. The highlight? The Caminito del Rey. Suspended high above the Gaitanes Gorge, this spectacular walkway is one for the bucket list. Be sure you save time to explore El Torcal de Antequera. You’ll feel like you’ve landed on another planet when you arrive at this natural wonderland, made up of wind-carved limestone formations. Well-marked trails vary from easy to challenging, and the site’s also a hotspot for birdwatching. 

Just an hour from the glitz and glam of Marbella lies a rugged, untouched landscape where ancient forests and soaring peaks await. Sierra de las Nieves National Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is just the ticket if you’re looking to reconnect with nature. It’s a wildlife hub, so look out for Ibex clambering across rocky outcrops and golden eagles circling above you. There’s a range of hikes to suit every ability, including one’s up to Torrecilla Peak, the park’s highest point.  

If you’d rather take to the water, nautical activities are particularly popular here. Kayaking is the best mode of transport around Nerja’s cliffs and the Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Area. Or why not give paddleboarding a go? 

Golfing prowess 

It’s impossible to mention Costa del Sol without highlighting its fantastic golf offering. It has more than 70 golf courses to its name, including four of the top ten ranked golf courses in Europe. Such sheer variety means you’ll find an array of terrains and astonishing views. And as the winters are wonderfully warm, you can play all year round. 

Gastronomic greats 

The food of Costa del Sol reflects its landscape – a blend of sumptuous seafood, rustic mountain fare and Moorish recipes passed down through the generations. In the coastal towns, espeto de sardinas (sardines skewered and grilled over open fires) are a staple. Enjoy them in a chiringuito (beach bar) with a cold tinto de verano or local beer. Fried fish – especially anchovies, squid and red mullet – are also specialties. 

Inland cuisine is heartier. Think migas (fried breadcrumbs with garlic, chorizo and peppers), porra antequerana (a thick, gazpacho-like soup) and cordero a la miel (lamb with honey). The olive oil here is some of the best, and regional cheeses and cured meats are delicious additions to any picnic. Got a sweet tooth? Tortas locas, made with puff pastry and custard, and torrijas (Spanish-style French toast) are perfect for dessert. Wash it all down with a glass of wine from the Sierras de Málaga wine region. 

So, whether you're navigating the cliffs of Caminito del Rey, wandering the quiet alleys of Frigiliana or savouring a plate of freshly grilled sardines, the real magic of Costa del Sol lies in its undiscovered corners.