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Top 10 things to do in Malaga

 

If you’re seeking a city in the sun that’s jam-packed with charm, may we introduce you to a good friend of ours, Malaga…

The gateway to the Costa del Sol, Malaga sure knows a thing or two about city style. From amazing art galleries to boutique-lined shopping streets, this Spanish stunner gives the likes of Paris and Rome a run for their money!

Sound like your kind of destination? Here are just ten of the top things to do in Malaga…

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1. Picasso Museum

Tucked away in the heart of Malaga Old Town, this mesmerising museum spans across various floors and takes you on a journey through the ages of Picasso. Grab an audio guide and hear the story of how this iconic artist got the inspiration for some of the most memorable paintings and sculptures of all time. From his experiments with cubism to his quirky abstract portrait style, this museum’s captivating collections are an absolute must-see.

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2. Malaga Cathedral

Wondering what to do when you arrive in Malaga? You won’t be able to miss this dazzling piece of architecture that jewels Malaga’s Old Town. Boasting a rich golden exterior and surrounded by luscious gardens, Malaga Cathedral’s façade’s stunning and the lavishness continues inside! Step through the huge doorway to reveal towering pillars, decorative design and spectacular stained-glass windows – you’ll be wowed by the intricacy.

3. Museo de Malaga

Malaga has no shortage of museums, but this one in particular makes a fabulous first stop. The marvellous Museo de Malaga will give you an insight into the history and culture of this spectacular city. From archaeological artefacts to exquisite examples of fine art, this highly-rated attraction is not to be missed. What’s more, it’s all displayed within the beautiful old Customs House building on Plaza Aduana.

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4. Malaga Old Town

A stroll around Malaga’s mesmerising Old Town will lead you through charming alleyways where tucked-away tapas bars and quaint little cafés spill onto the street. Look out for the quirky art installations that are dotted all around too, with splashes of colour in graffiti wall form and iconic statues that have become symbols of the city – Malaga never fails to amaze.

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5. Alcazaba

Get grand for the afternoon at Alcazaba de Málaga, the former home of the city’s Muslim government. This miraculously-preserved palace is perfectly placed on the Gibralfaro hillside with remarkable views across the cityscape below. Gorgeous gardens, a Roman Theatre and the Aduana Customs Building are all part of the complex too, so you can certainly make an afternoon of it. The paths are steep to the top though!

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6. Malaga Park

Spanning an incredible 30,000m and dating back more than a century, Malaga Park is a stunning spot for a stroll. It’s bang in the city centre and houses exotic subtropical plants. But it’s not all about the swishing palms and flourishing florals – there are statues and monuments here as well. The Statue of Summer and Winter and the Nymph Conch Shell to name but two.

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7. Carmen Thyssen Museum

Another one for the arty types is the Carmen Thyssen Museum. This captivating Malaga attraction tells the tale of Andalusian life through the 230 works that make up the gallery’s permanent collection and also the beautiful building in which it’s housed. There are temporary exhibitions too, so look out for works from Matisse, Van Gogh and Gauguin hanging upon the walls.

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8. Gibralfaro

At just €3.50, Gibralfaro castle is a great-value addition to your Malaga itinerary. Get set to be blessed with some of the best views of the city, with its blanket of whitewashed buildings, dazzling harbour and pops of greenery. The castle’s origins can be traced back to the 8th century and its wondrous past is sure to fill you with awe.

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9. Malaga Port

Pay a visit to Spain’s oldest operation fishing port. Yep, that’s right, this sparkling spot was founded more than a thousand years ago by the Phoenicians. Today you’re likely to see everything from small boats to gigantic ferries - in fact, it’s estimated 700,000 passengers travel through this port annually. There are even plans in place to build an 80-million-euro shopping centre here, so watch this space…

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10. Museo Automovilistico y de la Moda

A vehicle, fashion and art museum rolled into one, the Museo Automovilistico y de la Moda is a treat for both car enthusiasts and style-lovers. This incredible private collection features more than 100 cars and 200 designer fashion garments, all displayed within a giant 6,000sqm exhibition space. Look out for some of the globe’s most iconic names under one roof here, from Chanel and Dior to Bentley and Rolls-Royce – it’s no wonder it’s one of Malaga’s most loved attractions.

So, feeling inspired for a trip to Malaga? Us too! Check out our full destination guide for even more inspiration!

Posted: 12th Sept 2023. Updated: 22nd Mar 2024.

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